About
Brunsvigia striata 'Oorlogskloof' is a unique bulbous perennial that thrives as a non-hardy species. This compact plant features impressive umbels adorned with 8 to 30 flowers, ranging from light to mid-pink, which bloom from late summer through mid-autumn. The bulbs measure approximately 4-5 centimeters in diameter and support 4 to 6 large, elliptical leaves. These leathery, tongue-shaped leaves typically display attractive red edges and lie flat against the ground. Foliage emerges after the flowering period, continuing to grow through winter and spring before entering dormancy in the summer months. Ideal for cultivation indoors, it can be grown successfully as a houseplant or within a heated greenhouse or sunroom. This species appeals to bulb enthusiasts and succulent collectors seeking to diversify their plant selections.
Growing conditions
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Chalk, Loam, Sand
- Soil pH
- Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained, Well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing, West-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H3
Plant details
- Plant type
- Bulbs
- Habit
- Columnar upright
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Height
- 0.1-0.5 metres
- Spread
- 0.1-0.5 metres
- Time to full height
- 5-10 years
- Suggested uses
- Cottage and informal garden
- Fragrance
- Flower
Care notes
- Cultivation
- Plant bulbs only just below the soil surface with the neck protruding above the soil, when dormant, in moderately fertile, light, free-draining soil; extra grit can be added to improve drainage. Keep on the dry side when dormant in summer perhaps watering only once a month. Will do best when baked in full sun and with shelter from harsh frosts
- Pruning
- No pruning required
- Propagation
- Propagate by seed, sowing them in containers in a cold frame when ripe or in the spring. Alternatively remove offsets in autumn
- Pest resistance
- May be susceptible to bulb damage by large narcissus bulb fly. May also be susceptible to aphids, mealybugs and glasshouse red spider mite when grown under glass
- Disease resistance
- Generally disease-free