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Weed of the Month - Glory Lilly

Gloriosa superb ( Hochst.) Engl. (family COLCHICACEAE)

In flower now, this garden escape is increasingly being recorded in the Hunter region.

A native of Africa and Asia, Glory lilies, are widely-cultivated as garden plants and have subsequently become naturalised along parts of the Australian coast from north of Sydney to south-east Queensland.

All parts are highly-toxic if eaten and the weed has been responsible for the poisoning of both humans and livestock. The alkaloid present in the plant may cause multiple physiological effects.

Vectors: Glory lily produces large numbers of seeds and rhizomes. Dumping garden refuse in bushland is primary responsible for the weeds spread.

Physical control: Small infestations can be removed by hand.

Herbicide control: There are a number of herbicides registered.

Education: Educating gardeners to use alternate species and also to safely dispose of garden refuse.