The alternate, stem-clasping leaves of Gloriosa superba are ovate to lanceolate, their tips attenuating in elongated downward curls or tendrils. The leaves reduce somewhat in size up the supple stems. The margins are entire, the leaf surfaces here bright green and shiny. There is a slight fold along the leaf midrib and three main veins in each leaf (Manning, 2009; www.plantzafrica.com).