Bomarea multiflora – Many-flowered honeysuckle
Bomarea multiflora, also known as trailing lily or vine alstroemeria, is a spectacular climber from the Alstroemeriaceae family. This species originates from northern South America, mainly Colombia and Ecuador, where it grows naturally in moist mountain forests and on the slopes of the Andes. It is one of about 120 species in the Bomarea genus, which has gained popularity as an ornamental plant due to its striking inflorescences and relatively easy cultivation.
The Bomarea genus belongs to the same family as the well-known alstroemerias but differs from them in several morphological features. Unlike Alstroemeria, Bomarea plants are mostly climbers or vines that produce non-explosive seed capsules covered with a reddish, fleshy covering called sarcotesta.
Botanical description and plant appearance
Bomarea multiflora is a multi-stemmed climber with distinctive narrow, elongated leaves ranging from medium to light green. The leaves exhibit a feature called resupination – they are twisted at the base so that their underside faces upward, which is typical for the Alstroemeriaceae family. The plant develops from underground organs resembling rhizomes, which allow it to regenerate after unfavorable conditions.
The most characteristic feature of the species is its striking inflorescences. The flowers, shaped like narrow funnels or bells, are gathered in round, hanging umbels at the tips of the stems. Each inflorescence can consist of 15-45 flowers if the plant is well cared for. The flowers have intense colors – from bright red to orange, often with yellow or orange interiors and distinctive red, brown, or green spots on the petals.
The plant reaches up to 3 meters in height, climbing available supports with flexible stems. It is characterized by rapid growth and can reach mature size within 2-5 years from sowing.
Biological cycle and special features
Bomarea multiflora is a perennial plant with a partially evergreen nature that may die back above ground during cooler periods, regrowing from underground organs in spring. The flowering period occurs in late spring and early summer, though under favorable conditions it can extend into autumn. After flowering, the plant produces characteristic seed capsules containing seeds surrounded by a red, fleshy sarcotesta that attracts birds which help disperse the seeds.
The plant has the ability to reproduce both by seeds and by spreading underground organs. Seed germination occurs after about 3 months, provided the sarcotesta, which inhibits the germination process, is removed. Bomarea multiflora shows high vitality and under favorable conditions can form extensive colonies.
Temperature tolerance
This species originates from subtropical and tropical mountain regions, which limits its tolerance to low temperatures. The plant does not tolerate frost and requires protection during winter in temperate climate zones. It can survive temperatures around 0°C for a short time, but prolonged exposure to frost causes the above-ground parts to die off, and without proper protection, also the underground organs.
Plant uses
Bomarea multiflora is valued as an ornamental climber in gardening. Its spectacular inflorescences and attractive habit make it ideal for growing on pergolas, trellises, or as ground cover on fences. In temperate climate zones, it is most often grown in containers, allowing seasonal moving outdoors and indoors. The plant also performs well in greenhouses and winter gardens, where it can grow year-round.
The Royal Horticultural Society has awarded this species the Award of Garden Merit, confirming its horticultural value and reliability in cultivation.
Who is this species for
Bomarea multiflora is suitable for gardeners seeking unusual, exotic climbers with spectacular flowers. It requires some experience in container plant cultivation and providing proper winter protection, so it is a better choice for somewhat more experienced plant enthusiasts than for beginner gardeners.
Summary
Bomarea multiflora is a fascinating climber from the Alstroemeriaceae family, admired for its striking, colorful inflorescences and relatively fast growth. Although it requires frost protection in temperate climates, the RHS award confirms its value as an ornamental plant. For lovers of exotic climbing plants who can provide suitable growing conditions, it is an excellent choice for container or greenhouse plant collections.
