About
A bulbous perennial to 25cm in height, with purple-spotted, strap-shaped leaves and erect racemes of red buds opening to tubular yellow and green flowers 2-3cm in length, red at the base and tipped with purple.
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, South-facing, East-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH2
Plant details
Plant typeConservatory Greenhouse, Bulbs
HabitClump forming
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0-0.1 metre
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesPatio and container plants
Native toSouth Africa (SW Cape Prov)
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