About
Habranthus tubispathus, the Barbados snowdrop, is a bulbous perennial producing solitary, funnel-shaped, orange-red or yellow flowers 2.5 cm across on slender stems in summer, before the narrow, dark-green leaves emerge. A charming and ornamental rain lily for a sunny, well-drained border or container.
About the genus
Habranthus, the rain lilies, are small bulbous perennials from South America with narrow, strap-shaped leaves and solitary, nodding, funnel-shaped flowers in pink, orange or yellow, typically appearing after summer rain. Grown in sunny, well-drained borders or containers.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun
Soil typeChalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAlkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectSouth-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH2
Plant details
Plant typeBulbs, Conservatory Greenhouse
HabitBushy
FoliageDeciduous
HeightUp to 10 cm
Spread0-0.1 metre
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesPatio and container plants
Native toUSA (Texas)
Care notes
CultivationGrow under glass 7-10cm (3-4in) deep in peat-free, loam-based potting compost with added grit and leaf mould, and in full light. Water moderately as growth begins, freely when in leaf; reduce water as foliage dies back and keep barely moist when dormant. Apply a balanced liquid fertiliser weekly when in bud
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by seed sown at 16°C (61°F) as soon as ripe. Remove offsets in winter and pot up separately
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free