Brunsvigia

A genus of approximately 20 species, from southern Africa. These are mostly winter-growing, summer-dormant bulbs. The flowers are clustered together in a ball-head. In the dwarf species these can be 15 cm across, but the larger species are bigger than a football.

We grow them under frost-free glass, in full sun. In warmer climates they may be temperature hardy, but watering will need management. Ours are in a sharply-drained, loam-based mix. Never, ever, use peat-based or soil-less composts, these need replacing too often and the bulbs dislike disturbance (for this same reason they will probably sulk for a year or two after we send them to you). We feed every watering – we water infrequently, so there are only so many chances to feed !

Give a dry summer rest, then re-water in autumn when flowers may be expected, grow them through the autumn and winter and dry off again in July. Good air-circulation in winter will avoid fungal rots on the leaves. (If this makes them sound difficult, I would say that it is good advice for all wintergreen under glass in the UK).

Available for ordering from both our Autumn and Spring lists.