genus of tuberous-rooted plants of the family Colchicaceae, native to tropical Africa and Asia. There are about six species, from about 1 to 2.4 m (3 to 8 feet) tall. These plants, variously known as climbing lilies or glory-lilies, are grown in greenhouses or outdoors in the summer. They have slender, vinelike stems; narrow, lance-shaped leaves; and mostly red, yellow, or purple flowers.