Albuca spiralis
corkscrew albuca
A curious species with corkscrew leaves in the growing season and one central flower spike bearing hanging yellow and green flowers on individual flower stalks in late winter to early spring. Dormant in summer. Height to around 20cm
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Size
Ultimate height
0.1–0.5 metresTime to ultimate height
1–2 yearsUltimate spread
0–0.1 metreGrowing conditions
Moisture
Well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Green Yellow | Green | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | ||||
| Autumn | ||||
| Winter | Green |
Position
- Full sun
Aspect
South–facing
Exposure
Sheltered Hardiness
H2Botanical details
- Family
- Asparagaceae
- Native to GB / Ireland
- No
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Matforming
- Potentially harmful
- Harmful if eaten, skin irritant. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling Pets (dogs, cats): Harmful if eaten, skin irritant - see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants for further information and useful contact numbers
- Genus
Albuca are bulbous perennials with linear or narrowly lance-shaped leaves and loose racemes of yellow or white flowers, with three spreading tepals and three forming a tube, each often marked with green or brown on the reverse
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- S Africa (W Cape)
How to grow
Cultivation
Plant bulbs 8-10cm deep in spring. Any sunny position in a well-drained, fertile soil is suitable. Under glass, grow in containers of peat-free John Innes No 2 potting compost with added sharp sand and leafmould. A position in full light is ideal. Water moderately when the bulbs are in growth and apply a balanced liquid fertiliser monthly. When dormant, keep bulbs dry
Propagation
Propagate by seed
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Patio and container plants
- Mediterranean climate plants
Pruning
No pruning required
Pests
Generally pest-free
Diseases
Generally disease-free
Get involved
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