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Lachenalia ensifolia subsp. ensifolia
  • RHS AGM

sword-leaved Cape cowslip

A bulbous perennial to 5cm tall, with two grooved leaves to 20cm long. In autumn it produces trumpet-shaped, sweetly-scented white flowers with reflexed petals

Synonyms
Polyxena odorata
Polyxena ensifolia var. ensifolia
Size
Ultimate height
Up to 10cm
Time to ultimate height
2–5 years
Ultimate spread
0–0.1 metre
Growing conditions
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Well–drained, Moist but well–drained
pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring
Summer
Autumn White Green
Winter Green
Position
  • Full sun
Aspect

East–facing or South–facing or West–facing

Exposure
Sheltered
Hardiness
H2
Botanical details
Family
Asparagaceae
Native to the UK
No
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Tufted
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

Name status

Correct

Plant range
South Africa (Cape)

How to grow

Cultivation

Under glass, grow in loam-based compost in full light. Water moderately as growth starts, then freely, applying a balanced liquid fertiliser every 2 weeks. Reduce watering as the leaves fade, then keep dry until fresh growth starts

Propagation

Propagate by sowing seed at 13-18°C as soon as ripe, or remove bulblets in summer or autumn

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Patio and container plants
  • Rock garden
  • Gravel garden
  • Conservatory and greenhouse
Pruning

No pruning required

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

Generally disease-free

Get involved

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