Overview

Vallota speciosa is a bulbous perennial in the genus Vallota, part of the Amaryllidaceae family. Vallota speciosa grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates well-drained and sandy or loamy soils and neutral to slightly acidic pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H3. Suggested uses include borders, containers and rock gardens. It is native to Cape Province and South Africa.

About

Vallota speciosa is a bulbous perennial in the Amaryllidaceae that produces mildly fragrant flowers. Native to the Cape Province of South Africa, it suits warmer, sheltered sites. Plant it in full sun or partial shade in a well-drained sandy or loamy soil with neutral to slightly acidic pH and moderate moisture. In the UK it is borderline hardy (H3) and performs best in a south-facing, sheltered position.

Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Cyrtanthus elatus

About the genus

Cyrtanthus is a genus of perennial, herbaceous and bulbous plants in the family Amaryllidaceae, subfamily Amaryllidoideae.

In the garden

Vallota speciosa belongs to the Amaryllidaceae and comes from the Cape Province of South Africa. As a bulbous perennial, it emerges from an underground bulb and carries a mild floral scent that is best appreciated close to terraces or pathways. Position plants where they receive full sun or some afternoon shade, ideally on a south-facing aspect and protected from cold winds. Soils should be well drained — sandy or loamy mixes are most suitable — with a neutral to slightly acidic pH and a steady, moderate moisture level. Exposure should be sheltered in the UK because the species is borderline hardy (H3), so choose a warm microclimate or give winter protection where frosts are severe. Vallota speciosa works well at the front of borders, in rock garden pockets and in containers where bulbs can be moved if required. Sit containers close to seating so the mildly fragrant blooms can be enjoyed at close range, and avoid waterlogged locations to reduce bulb loss over winter.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Vallota

Sunlight

full sun, partial shade

Soil type

well-drained, sandy or loamy

Soil pH

neutral to slightly acidic

Soil moisture

moderate

Aspect

south-facing

Exposure

sheltered

UK hardiness

H3

Plant details

Vallota speciosa size, habit and characteristics

Plant type

bulbous perennial

Suggested uses

borders, containers, rock gardens

Native to

Cape Province, South Africa

Fragrance

mildly fragrant

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Vallota speciosa

Cultivation

plant bulbs in spring, protect from frost

Pruning

remove spent flowers and dead foliage

Propagation

bulb offsets, seed

Frequently asked questions