Lachenalia ensifolia subsp. ensifolia
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
Size
Ultimate height
Up to 10cmTime to ultimate height
2–5 yearsUltimate spread
0–0.1 metreGrowing conditions
Moisture
Well–drained, Moist but well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | ||||
| Autumn | White | Green | ||
| Winter | Green |
Position
- Full sun
Aspect
East–facing or South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Sheltered Hardiness
H2Botanical details
- Family
- Asparagaceae
- Native to GB / Ireland
- 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 peat-free, 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
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