About
Rupert' is a bulbous perennial, up to 30cm high, growing from autumn to spring, with long fleshy green leaves, spotted above with maroon-brown. From late winter to spring, spotted stems with spikes of tubular, pale blue-lilac flowers with pale pink-purple tips appear.
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, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectWest-facing, South-facing
ExposureSheltered
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
Care notes
CultivationPlant bulbs 10cm deep: in frost-prone areas, grow in a cool greenhouse or conservatory in full light in peat-free, loam-based potting compost. Water moderately as growth starts, water freely when in full growth (adding a balanced fertilizer every fortnight), and reduce watering as the leaves fade, then keep dry until fresh growth starts. In frost-free areas with dry summers, grow in full sun in well-drained soil in a rock garden or among low shrubs
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by seed, sown at 13-18°C as soon as it is ripe, or by division, removing bulblets from dormant plants and repotting or replanting straightaway
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free