Description

Distinctive and unusual flowering bulb with 5cm long red to orange urn shaped flowers with stamens and style that extend beyond the perianth. The 6 to 8 open pendant flowers are carried in small umbels on long pedicels on a stem that is 30cm tall. The broad, strap shaped leaves appear with or after the flower stem emerges. In group plantings they make an eye catching statement in garden borders or containers in winter/spring.

Cultivation

Urceolina is not frost hardy, so must be grown with protection from severe cold or in a warmer climate. Grow these bulbs in any well nourished garden or potting soil but good drainage is essential. Plant the bulbs in autumn in a sunny spot with their necks just at soil level and 15 to 20cm apart. If planted in pots, the containers must be quite deep to assist a good root run and left to remain undisturbed for several years. Simply remove and replace the uppermost layer of potting soil but do not disturb the roots.

After watering in at planting time, do not water again until growth appears and then only in moderation. Weak feedings of liquid fertilizer can be given when the bulbs are actively growing. Protect the plants from aphids, other sucking insects and mealy bugs.