Cyrtanthus staadensis

Its that time of the year again when most of the Cyrtanthus species are
flowering, when there is not much to show for in the bulb department, apart
from the Brunsvigia and few other species.

This season some of the Cyrtanthus species are again outstanding. A large genus of African bulbous plants, native mainly to S.Afr. They grow in a variety ot habitats, ranging from damp stream edges to almost near desertlike conditions.
These are mainly plants for containers and make ideal potplants to be admired from close up.

Sometimes a little temperamental, but well worth the effort if done properly.
They require rather different treatment for each species as to resting
periods and watering, depending on their area of origin. Most species require a sharp draining potting mix, demand high light or full sun and resents overwatering.

Flowers vary in shape from tubular and mostly pendant to star-like in
appearance in a variety of colours. The strap-like grey-green foliage can vary from narrow to very wide and sometimes attactive twisting leaves.

I have to admit that the Cyrtanthus are one of my favourite genus, they
provide a challenge, that needs constant attention and adjustment, depending
on that particular species. All in all a very interesting, attractive, and challenging genus.

Bill Dijk (March 17, 2002)

Dennis Tsang

Cyrtanthus staadensis is another uncommon South African amaryllid endemic to southern Cape. I have been growing bulbs of this species since 1996 and it was the first time one of the bulbs had flowered for me.

Dennis Tsang (Mar 14, 2000)
Discovery Bay, Hong Kong

Cyrtanthus staadensis is a much smaller, daintier plant up to 8 inches for us.

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