Overview

Bulbine bulbosa is a perennial herb in the genus Bulbine, part of the Asphodelaceae family. Bulbine bulbosa grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates well-drained soils. It is native to Australia.

About

Bulbine bulbosa is a perennial herb in the Asphodelaceae that flowers in the UK from June to September. Native to Australia and also called native leek or native onion, it favours well-drained yet moist soil in full sun or partial shade. Plants produce yellow flowers during the summer months. It suits sunny or lightly shaded situations where soil does not remain waterlogged.

Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Bulbine bulbosa

About the genus

Bulbine is a genus of plants in the family Asphodelaceae and subfamily Asphodeloideae, named for the bulb-shaped tuber of many species. It was formerly placed in the Liliaceae.

In the garden

Bulbine bulbosa belongs to the Asphodelaceae and originates from Australia; in UK gardens it is grown as a perennial herb valued for its summer flowering. Common names include bulbine lily, native leek and native onion, and the plant reliably blooms in the UK between June and September. Give it a site in full sun or partial shade with well-drained soil that retains some moisture rather than drying out completely. Avoid waterlogged positions. Where soil is very free-draining, occasional watering through dry spells will help maintain moist root conditions without causing sitting water. Planting in groups helps the display of flowers and makes maintenance such as weeding and watering more efficient. In a UK garden it works well in sunny to semi-shaded borders, gravel or rock gardens that hold a little moisture, and suitably-sized containers positioned in sun or light shade. Its season of interest is the reliable summer bloom period, so place it where the flowers will be visible from paths or seating areas. Expect flowering in the UK from June to September.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Bulbine

Sunlight

full sun, partial shade

Soil type

well-drained

Soil moisture

moist

Plant details

Bulbine bulbosa size, habit and characteristics

Plant type

perennial herb

Native to

Australia

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Bulbine bulbosa

Propagation

seed,division

Frequently asked questions