Ammocharis [Cybistetes] longifolia

Photo Description: The above photo was taken in the natural habitat on the West Coast, South Africa.  It is said that the area used to have a large population of Ammocharis longifolia.  Sadly, nearly all of the bulbs had been wiped out due to destruction of habitats for urban development.  The bulb shown in the picture was actually in an area which was due for a housing project.
 
Distinguishing Features: This species was previously known as Cybistetes longifolia.  It is similar to Ammocharis coranica by producing a dense umbel of strongly scented flowers but major differences include:
(1) Contrary to A. coranica which is a summer-grower, A. longifolia is a winter-growing;
(2) A. coranica has a much wider distribution in the summer rainfall areas in South Africa, Zimbabwe through to Kenya in east Africa.  However, the distribution of A. longifolia is confined to the sandy coastal areas in western South Africa;
(3) Flowers of A. coranica range from deep pink to bright carmine red while A. longifolia is soft rose to light pink in colour; and
(4) Last but not the least, A. coranica leaves are arranged in a parallel fashion.  Tip of the old leaves are truncated, marked by the point where the plant goes dormant in the previous year.  In the case of A. longifolia, the foliage is arranged in a rosette.
 
Cultivation: Ammocharis longifolia is strictly a winter-grower.  Bulbs are prone to rotting if they are given too much watering during summer time.  This species enjoys full sun and well-drained growing media.  In the habitats, bulbs grow to about 60 cm below soil level.  In cultivation, bulbs can be grown closer to the soil level but sufficient room should be allowed as the very large bulbs may grow deeper and deeper in time.  Bulbs prefer pure sand but small rocks can be added in the growing media for improvement of drainage.

Dennis Tsang (March 31, 2006)

Ian & Jocelyn Bell

Cybistetes longifolia flowering in the open ground in Wanganui N Z on 14 Feb 04 The soil is a heavy loam modified with gravel to provide better drainage.

Ian & Jocelyn Bell (Mar 16, 2004)
Wanganui N Z

Cybistetes longifolia: this colour variation is typical of this species, and is well illustrated in this picture. On opening they are cream-coloured but shade to deep pink as they mature. Strongly fragrant. Very showy plant.

Bill Dijk (Mar 20, 2000)
Tauranga, New Zealand

Dennis Tsang