Description
Bellevalia crassa makes two, quite broad leaves, either side of a short flower stem (this elongates with age) and a short, stubby cluster of buds in April and May. (earlier if grown under glass). The tips of the opening flower buds are tinged with pale pink-purple but they open to a tightly compacted spike of lovely white flowers each bell of which is counterpointed with six, small, purple anthers. Small bud spikes are almost cylindrical, as a plant gets larger or older, then the spike tend to be longer and more conical or even cylindrical. In large, established bulbs, the flower spikes can become quite long and they last several weeks. It’s a personal favourite as it looks good for a long time and scents the air around it, gently.
Known from only one locality in Malatya province, Turkey where it grows on screes. Described by the late Per Wendelbo in 1980 this remains elusive in cultivation and virtually unknown in the wild. It is readily grown either in a choice, well-drained and sunny spot outside or in a pot in the alpine house. In either case this enjoys a dry summer rest during which time it can be sensitive to excess water, though it doesn’t mind a little bit.
