Hippeastrum fragrantissimum

Dennis Tsang (Nov 17, 2005)
Hong Kong

Dennis Tsang (14 February 2005)

Sir Peter Smithers

Introduction:  Hippeastrum fragrantissimum is amongst the very few powerfully scented species of the genus. It is closely allied to such species as Hippeastrum solandriflorum, Hippeastrum brasilianum and Hippeastrum candidum (aka Hippeastrum argentinum) with its long white trumpets of about 25 cm long. In South America, all these long white trumpet species are known as “azucenas” which is a Spanish word for “white lilies”.

Origin: Hippeastrum fragrantissimum is endemic to Sud-Yungas Province in the Department of La Paz and the Province of Chapare in the Department of Cochabamba, Bolivia.

Habitats:  Bulbs grow in hot tropical valleys on slopes lightly shaded by forests, at altitudes below 2,000 m. Len Doran describes that bulbs also grow along rivers in Cochabamba.

Cultivation:  H. fragrantissimum enjoys a warm and humid climate as in its natural habitats.   In cultivation, bulbs grow actively during Spring and Summer time and begin to go through a brief dormant period in mid-Autumn when growth slows down though bulbs do not usually lose all their leaves. H. fragrantissimum grows well in a sunny spot or in areas with bright light. I grow my bulb in pure sand though it is highly recommended that bulbs should be cultivated in growing media comprising a high organic content. H. fragrantissimum is a large species whose big bulbs may grow to 12 cm in diameter. Bulbs should grow deep in the soil to support the leaves. A big pot is also necessary to allow room for its roots. The species flowers in Spring. My large bulb was from the Doran collection in 1996 and has developed only 3 offsets so far. Apparently, this species multiplies very slowly.

Potential for Breeding:  H. fragrantissimum is desired for the highly elegant white trumpet scented flowers. It is certainly a great candidate for cross breeding with other species.

Further Reading:  Plant Life 1967, p.35, Plant Life 1975, p.47, Plant Life 1980, p.35, Plant Life 1981, p.45 (chromosome counts), HERBERTIA 1988 Part 2, p.27. HERBERTIA 1991 Part 2, p.142.  

Dennis Tsang (14 February 2005)
Hong Kong