Haemanthus coccineus - Pink Cushion Flower

Family: Amaryllidaceae

Common Name(s): Paintbrush Lily, Blood Lily, Pin Cushion Flower

Native to: South Africa

Flowering: Summer-Autumn

Watering: Water moderately only when the plant is actively growing

Planting Aspect: Full Sun, Part Shade

Preferred Climate:

 

Temperate, Subtropical, Grassland

Description

An unusual flowering bulb sometimes also known as the "Pin Cushion Flower" due to the distinctive mass inflorescence containing many individual small flowers and pollen tipped stamens surrounded by large coloured bracts. These flowers are mounted on short, stout, naked stems to around 20cm tall that rise mostly from leafless bulbs in summer to autumn. 2 to 6 wide, flat, glossy and strappy leaves rise after the flowers have dried off and set seed pods.

Haemanthus are 'half hardy' but can be grown in hot locations with light shade, but will grow best in cool to temperate locations with protection from severe frosts. Haemanthus can be grown in pots, containers or the garden.

Cultivation

In the garden, choose a well drained, frost free position which is lightly shaded. Alternatively, plant them in pots or containers in order to control growing conditions. Prepare the growing site by digging over the soil and adding a good handful of blood and bone, rich compost or well decayed animal manure prior to planting out. As the bulbs send out very long roots, ensure that a very large hole is dug at planting time. Place the bulb with their tops at or above soil level and then back fill around them. Regular feeding is not required, as is no water when the bulb is fully dormant after the leaves have died down. No particular pests or diseases but protect them from snails and slugs.