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BulbsHerbaceous PerennialConservatory Greenhouse

Massonia citrina

yellow-flowered massonia

A winter-active bulb producing just two leaves up to 25cm long, which lie flat on the ground. A cluster of lemon-yellow 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 10cm
Time to ultimate height
2–5 years
Ultimate spread
0.1–0.5 metres
Growing conditions
Sand
Moisture
Well–drained
pH
Acid, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Green
Summer
Autumn Green
Winter Yellow Green Green
Position
  • Full sun
Aspect

South–facing

Exposure
Sheltered
Hardiness
H2
Botanical details
Family
Asparagaceae
Native to GB / Ireland
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

Unresolved

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
  • Houseplants
  • Conservatory and greenhouse
Pruning

No pruning required

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

May be susceptible to grey moulds

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