Overview
Cyrtanthus luteus is a tufted bulbs in the genus Cyrtanthus, part of the Amaryllidaceae family, with deciduous foliage. Cyrtanthus luteus grows best in full sun, and tolerates loam soils and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H2. Suggested uses include patio and container plants, sub-tropical and wall side borders.
About
Cyrtanthus luteus is a tufted cultivar of the bulbous perennial genus Cyrtanthus, known for its cluster of strap-like leaves and upright stems bearing umbels of tubular or funnel-shaped flowers. This deciduous plant thrives in full sun on a south-facing, sheltered aspect with well-drained, neutral loam soil. Hardy to UK zone H2, it is suitable for patio and container planting, as well as sub-tropical and wall-side borders. It flowers in spring and summer and is best planted at the appropriate depth, with propagation possible by seed or offsets in spring.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Cyrtanthus
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Loam
- Soil pH
- Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H2
Plant details
Cyrtanthus luteus size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Bulbs
- Habit
- Tufted
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Suggested uses
- Patio and container plants, Sub-tropical, Wall side borders
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Cyrtanthus luteus
- Propagation
- Seed, offsets in spring
- Pest resistance
- Generally pest-free
- Disease resistance
- Generally disease-free
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Cyrtanthus luteus?
Cyrtanthus luteus prefers full sun. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Cyrtanthus luteus need?
Cyrtanthus luteus grows best in loam soil. It prefers neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays well-drained.
Is Cyrtanthus luteus hardy in the UK?
Cyrtanthus luteus has an RHS hardiness rating of H2, meaning it is tender, tolerating 1–5°C, and needs frost-free protection over winter.
How do I propagate Cyrtanthus luteus?
Seed, offsets in spring.
More in the Cyrtanthus genus
- Cyrtanthus elatus 'Pink Diamond'

- Cyrtanthus mackenii 'Himalayan Pink'

- Cyrtanthus obliquus

- Cyrtanthus 'Alaska'
- Cyrtanthus lutescens