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BulbsConservatory Greenhouse

Lachenalia viridiflora
  • RHS AGM

green-flowered Cape cowslip

L. viridiflora is a bulbous perennial to 20cm tall, with two strap-shaped pale green leaves, and spikes of vivid blue-green or turquoise flowers tipped with white in winter

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Size
Ultimate height
0.1–0.5 metres
Time to ultimate height
2–5 years
Ultimate spread
0–0.1 metre
Growing conditions
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Well–drained
pH
Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter Blue Green White Green
Position
  • Full sun
Aspect

West–facing or South–facing

Exposure
Sheltered
Hardiness
H2
Botanical details
Family
Asparagaceae
Native to the UK
No
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Bushy
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
S Africa (W Cape)

How to grow

Cultivation

Overwinter under glass. In containers grow in loan-based compost such as John Innes No.2 in full light. Water moderately until in full growth, than water freely, adding a balanced fertiliser every 10-14 days. Reduce watering as the leaves fade, than keep dry until the onset of new growth in the autumn

Propagation

Propagate by seed as soon as ripe, germinate at 13-18°C. Remove bulblets in summer or autumn when dormant before re-potting. Further bulb propagation advice

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Patio and container plants
Pruning

Remove dead foliage

Pests

Aphids, slugs and snails may be a problem

Diseases

Generally disease-free

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