Overview
Bulbinella hookeri is a perennial in the genus Bulbinella, part of the Asphodelaceae family. It typically grows around 0.7 m tall. Bulbinella hookeri grows best in full sun, and tolerates sandy and loamy soils. Its UK hardiness is rated H5. It is native to New Zealand.
About the genus
Bulbinella is a genus of plants in the family Asphodelaceae, subfamily Asphodeloideae, first described as a genus in 1843. Many species are endemic to Cape Province in western South Africa, confined to the winter rainfall area. Other species are endemic to New Zealand, where they are most common in the central Otago region which enjoys a similar climate to the Cape Region of South Africa.
Wikipedia contributors, "Bulbinella", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Bulbinella
In the garden
Bulbinella hookeri (golden wand or Māori lily) is a perennial from New Zealand in the Asphodelaceae family. It reaches around 0.7 m and bears bright yellow flower spikes in the UK from May to July, offering a defined period of summer colour. The genus Bulbinella is best used where upright floral stems are wanted rather than low ground cover. Choose a full-sun position and a free-draining soil: sandy or loamy mixes suit it best. The plant prefers soil that is well-drained yet can remain moist rather than bone dry, so avoid waterlogged hollows. Hardiness H5 means it is classed as hardy for UK conditions; the equivalent USDA range is 7–10, which indicates tolerance of milder winter climates. In garden use, place Bulbinella hookeri where its 0.7 m height complements surrounding perennials — for example as a mid-border accent or in a sunny gravel bed where drainage is good. Flower spikes are most effective when allowed clear sightlines rather than being buried among taller plants. Expect a concentrated display of yellow blooms through May to July that highlights the start of summer.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Bulbinella
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Sandy, Loamy
- Soil moisture
- Well-drained, Moist but well-drained
- Exposure
- Full sun
- UK hardiness
- H5
Plant details
Bulbinella hookeri size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Perennial
- Height
- 0.7 m
- Native to
- New Zealand
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Bulbinella hookeri
- Propagation
- Seed
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Bulbinella hookeri?
Bulbinella hookeri prefers full sun. It suits full sun positions.
What soil does Bulbinella hookeri need?
Bulbinella hookeri grows best in sandy and loamy soil. Aim for soil that stays well-drained to moist but well-drained.
How big does Bulbinella hookeri grow?
Bulbinella hookeri reaches a height of 0.7 m.
Is Bulbinella hookeri hardy in the UK?
Bulbinella hookeri has an RHS hardiness rating of H5, meaning it is hardy in most of the UK, tolerating -15 to -10°C.
How do I propagate Bulbinella hookeri?
Seed.
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