About
A bulbous perennial to 5cm tall, with two grooved leaves to 20cm long. In autumn it produces trumpet-shaped, sweetly-scented white flowers with reflexed petals.
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 typeLoam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained, Moist but well-drained
AspectEast-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH2
Plant details
Plant typeBulbs
HabitTufted
FoliageDeciduous
HeightUp to 10 cm
Spread0-0.1 metre
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesPatio and container plants, Rock garden, Gravel garden
Native toSouth Africa (Cape)
FragranceFlower
Care notes
CultivationUnder glass, grow in peat-free, loam-based compost in full light. Water moderately as growth starts, then freely, applying a balanced liquid fertiliser every 2 weeks. Reduce watering as the leaves fade, then keep dry until fresh growth starts
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by sowing seed at 13-18°C as soon as ripe, or remove bulblets in summer or autumn
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free