About

A bulbous perennial to 45cm tall, with grass-like basal leaves which smell of garlic; these wither as the flowers open. In spring, clusters of 2-7 funnel-shaped, scented, lilac flowers with orange centres are produced.

About the genus

Leucocoryne are bulbous perennials with grassy, garlic-scented folaige and umbels of funnel-shaped purple, blue or white flowers in 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 hardinessH3

Plant details

Plant typeBulbs
HabitColumnar upright
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesPatio and container plants, Rock garden
FragranceFlower

Care notes

CultivationUnder glass, grow in peat-free, loam-based potting compost with added sharp sand, in full light with good ventilation. When in growth, water moderately and apply a balanced liquid fertiliser monthly when in leaf. Reduce watering and keep almost dry when dormant in summer. Pot on every 2 years in autumn
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by sowing seed at 19-24°C as soon as ripe, or remove offsets in autumn
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free