About
Massonia echinata, the prickly massonia, is a winter-active bulb producing a pair of broad, rounded, spreading leaves to 25 cm long that lie flat on the ground. Dense, compact heads of honey-scented, purple-tinged white flowers are produced in winter, the prominent stamens being the most decorative part. A charming and rewarding bulb for a cool greenhouse or frost-free, sunny garden.
About the genus
Massonia are winter-active bulbous perennials from South Africa producing a pair of broad, spreading, ground-level leaves and dense heads of white or pink flowers with prominent stamens, opening in winter or early spring. Grown in cool greenhouses or frost-free, sunny gardens.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun
Soil typeLoam
Soil pHAcid, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectSouth-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH2
Plant details
Plant typeBulbs, Alpine Rockery, Conservatory Greenhouse
HabitMatforming
FoliageDeciduous
HeightUp to 10 cm
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesPatio and container plants
Native toSouth Africa (Cape)
FragranceFlower
Care notes
CultivationGrow in a frost-free greenhouse in pots of free-draining compost. Start into growth by watering from early autumn, feeding monthly with a phosphate-free liquid feed. Removal of flowers as soon as they fade will help to avoid problems with grey mould. Stop watering when the leaves start to yellow in spring
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by seed
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to grey moulds