Scilla natalensis

At Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens

Dr Ori Fragman-Sapir (March 24, 2006)
Head Scientist
The Jerusalem Botanical Gardens
Giv'at-Ram, 91904
Jerusalem, Israel
 
Tel. +972-52-4472401, Fax. +972-3-5182842
 
Please visit our website www.botanic.co.il

Dave Fenwick

This plant was grown from seed collected by Dawie Human from Cathedral Peak, South Africa. Raised and exhibited by Dick Fulcher of Pine Cottage Plants, Devon, UK. The National Collection holder of Agapanthus. Plant is four years old from seed. What a stunner.

Sadly mine aren't in flower yet, but now I know what to look forward to.

Dave Fenwick (June 15, 2004)

The African Garden
NCCPG National Plant Reference Collections of
Crocosmia with Chasmanthe, Tulbaghia and Amaryllis
96 Wasdale Gardens,
Estover, Plymouth, Devon. England.
PL6 8TW
Tel:  44 (0)1752 301402
www.theafricangarden.com

Bill Dijk

The bulbs were the size of big bulbs of Crinum.

The best way to get it to bloom is to plant it in the hottest, sunniest, free draining spot in the garden, with plenty of moisture when in full growth.

Not hardy in colder climates, should get some protection against severe frost. I suppose our mild winters in NZ, with occasional light frost, are a big advantage. A sheltered position on a sloping bank facing the sun, or located among rocks would also suit ideally. Plant the bulbs with the top half above the soil level, it loves a good old fashion baking when dormant, this seems to initiate and promote the flowering process (crop) for the next season The same applies to growing in containers, make sure the pot is big enough to accommodate the massive root system.

Make sure you dry the bulbs off thoroughly, it hates wet, cold feet when dormant. Go easy on the manure or fertilizer as well, with us, it almost thrives on neglect.

Here is what Terry Hatch writes and recommend:

Scilla natalensis from South Africa is a highly desirable species for larger gardens. It forms very large clumps, and when located amongst rocks where the huge papery bulbs can be seen it is very effective. In early summer the flower-spikes emerge and quickly grow to one meter or more.

They are covered with hundreds of soft blue stars, which appear continually for several weeks. The flowers are followed by 40 cm. long grey-green leaves, which often have a purple sheen. The flower are also useful for large floral displays. The bulbs should be planted with their lower third below soil level in autumn or winter.

They multiply slowly, seed therefore is the quickest method of increase It must be fresh when sown as old seed does not germinate. It should be sown on the surface of a sandy mix, and germination will commence in two to three days.

Small bulbs will form before the winter, at which time they will become dormant. Between four and seven years are required for bulbs of flowering size to develop.

Be patient; if grown correctly, you will be well awarded.

Bill Dijk (Dec 25, 2002)

Sir Peter Smithers