Massonia depressa
hedgehog lily
A winter-active bulb producing just two leaves up to 25cm long, which lie flat on the ground. A cluster of small, off-white flowers appear in the centre. These have a yeasty smell that attracts gerbils to pollinate plants in the wild. The green fruits follow as an interlocking cluster of three-lobed capsules
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Size
Ultimate height
Up to 10cmTime to ultimate height
2–5 yearsUltimate spread
0.1–0.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Well–drainedpH
Acid, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Green | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | ||||
| Autumn | Green | |||
| Winter | Cream | Green | Green |
Position
- Full sun
Aspect
South–facing
Exposure
Sheltered Hardiness
H2Botanical details
- Family
- Asparagaceae
- Native to the UK
- No
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Matforming
- Genus
Massonia are bulbous perennials with two oblong to elliptic leaves and dense heads of white or pink flowers of which the large stamens are the prominent part, usually opening in winter
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- South Africa
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow 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
Propagation
Propagate by seed
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Patio and container plants
Pruning
No pruning required
Pests
Generally problem free
Diseases
Susceptible to grey moulds
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