Cyrtanthus belongs to the Amaryllidaceae, the amaryllis family, and is one of Africa’s most captivating perennial bulb genera. It includes 59 accepted species and is especially rich in southern Africa, where it occupies an astonishing range of habitats, from fynbos and rocky mountain slopes to grassland, thicket and even cliff faces. The genus is celebrated for its extraordinary variety: some species are evergreen, others deciduous; some grow in summer-rainfall regions, others in winter-rainfall areas; and the flowers range from slender and tubular to broad and flaring, in shades of white, cream, yellow, pink, orange–red and scarlet. Even the name Cyrtanthus hints at its beauty, coming from Greek words meaning “curved flower.” What makes Cyrtanthus so compelling to growers is that it combines wild South African character with real ornamental drama. Many species are excellent container subjects, some are scented, some have beautifully exposed bulbs or twisted foliage, and a few are famed as “fire lilies,” bursting into flower after veld fires. It is a genus with both elegance and ecological intrigue, which is exactly why it holds such enduring appeal for collectors, bulb enthusiasts and gardeners alike.

Cyrtanthus rotundilobus – Red Dobo Lily

Cyrtanthus rotundilobus is a captivating South African bulb with a wonderfully elegant, wild character that makes it irresistible to collectors and specialist growers. Endemic to South Africa, it is recorded from the Eastern Cape and KwaZulu-Natal, with historic collections from the Transkei, giving it the kind of regional authenticity that both local gardeners and international bulb enthusiasts value highly. For anyone looking to grow something with real provenance and unmistakable charm, this is a species that stands apart from the ordinary.

This species has a graceful, lightly built habit that looks especially rewarding when grown in groups. Neat fans of narrow, arching, grass-like leaves form a refined base, while slender stems rise above them carrying generous clusters of pendent, tubular blooms. The flowers create a soft cascading effect, with each hanging bloom adding movement and depth, so a well-grown clump develops a full, layered presence that feels both natural and highly ornamental.

The flower colour is one of its great attractions: vivid scarlet-red to rich carmine-red, glowing warmly and finished with small flared mouths that give the blooms a delicate, bell-like elegance. In habitat it is found in flower during June, making it a rewarding winter-flowering subject in its native range and a particularly desirable choice for growers who appreciate seasonal bulbs with a dramatic but refined display. The brilliance of the flowers against the fine foliage gives this species a collector-quality look that is both striking and sophisticated.

For South African growers, hobbyists and indigenous plant lovers, Cyrtanthus rotundilobus offers the thrill of cultivating a true local treasure. For international buyers, it brings the appeal of a rare and memorable South African bulb with boutique character and strong visual impact. Check out our online seed store and explore our Vast and Diverse Selection of exceptional species. Buy Now, Add to Cart and secure this remarkable Cyrtanthus for your collection today. Seeds and All offers combined South African and International shipping, making it easy for growers everywhere to enjoy extraordinary South African seed.