About
A bulbous perennial to 25cm, with strap-shaped leaves heavily marked with maroon, and erect racemes of pendent, green and purple-tipped, orange or red flowers 3cm in length in late winter or spring.
About the genus
Lachenalia are bulbous perennials with strap-shaped, sometimes dark-spotted leaves, and erect stems bearing racemes or spikes of tubular flowers, slightly fragrant in some species, in autumn, winter or early spring
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun
Soil typeChalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectNorth-facing, West-facing, East-facing, South-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH2
Plant details
Plant typeBulbs, Conservatory Greenhouse
HabitClump forming
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0-0.1 metre
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesPatio and container plants
Native toS Africa (W Cape)
Care notes
CultivationUnder glass grow in peat-free, loam-based potting compost in full light. When in growth water freely and apply a balanced liquid fertiliser fortnightly. Reduce water as the leaves fade and keep dry until new foliage appears in autumn. Can be grown outdoors in a light soil
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by seed sown as soon as ripe at 13 to 18°C or remove bulblets in summer or autumn prior to repotting
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free