Cape Cowslip Lachenalia bulbifera
ABOUT
Lachenalia bulbifera, commonly known as Cape cowslip, is a striking plant that is easily recognized by its vibrant flowers and spotted foliage. The leaves are usually a deep green color with unique brown or purplish markings that can appear as spots or sometimes as streaks. These leaves are fleshy and glossy, growing from the base of the plant. The flowers of the Cape cowslip are very distinctive and ornamental, typically blooming in bold shades of orange, yellow, or red. Each flower is shaped like a tubular bell, and they hang in a loose cluster from a central spike that rises from the base among the leaves. The combination of the spotted foliage and the brightly colored flowers makes the Cape cowslip a favorite among garden enthusiasts who seek to add a splash of color to their plant collections.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asparagaceae
Synonyms
March Lily, Soldier-in-the-box
Common names
Lachenalia tricolor, Lachenalia pendula, Lachenalia orchioides var. pendula, Lachenalia orchioides var. bulbifera, Lachenalia orchioides var. tricolor, Lachenalia quadricolor, Lachenalia purpureo-caerulea, Lachenalia racemosa, Lachenalia pustulata, Lachenalia luteola, Lachenalia pallida, Lachenalia mutabilis, Scilla pustulata, Scilla pendula, Phormium pendulum, Polyxena bulbifera, Lachenalia hyacinthoides.
ToxicityTo humans
Cape cowslip (Lachenalia bulbifera) contains toxic compounds that can be harmful if ingested. These compounds may cause symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. It is important to avoid ingesting any part of the Cape cowslip plant, as severe poisoning can have more serious health consequences, potentially affecting the liver and kidneys.
To pets
Cape cowslip (Lachenalia bulbifera) is also toxic to pets and can cause similar symptoms to those in humans, including vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. If a pet ingests Cape cowslip, it is advised to contact a veterinarian immediately. Ingestion can lead to serious health issues, including potential liver and kidney damage.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Yellow
Height
0.5 feet (15 cm
Spread
0.5 feet (15 cm
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
8
Native area
South Africa
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: Lachenalia bulbifera, commonly known as Cape cowslip, adds vibrant color to gardens and indoor spaces with its lively and colorful flowers.
- Ease of Cultivation: Cape cowslip is relatively easy to grow and care for, making it suitable for gardeners of varying experience levels.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, Cape cowslip is drought-tolerant, requiring minimal watering and making it suitable for xeriscaping or dry gardens.
- Seasonal Interest: The plant flowers in winter to early spring, providing color and interest during a time when few other plants are in bloom.
- Attracts Pollinators: The bright flowers of Cape cowslip attract bees and other pollinators to the garden, supporting local ecosystems.
- Bulb Propagation: Cape cowslip can be easily propagated from offsets, allowing gardeners to expand their collection or share with others.
- Container Gardening: It is well-suited for container gardening, making it a versatile choice for patios, balconies, or limited space gardening.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Garden Ornamental: Lachenalia bulbifera, commonly known as Cape cowslip, is often used as an ornamental plant due to its attractive flowers, adding vibrant color to gardens and indoor settings.
- Seasonal Displays: Cape cowslip can be used in seasonal floral arrangements, especially during its blooming period in winter and spring.
- Educational Tool: Botanical gardens and educational institutions may use Cape cowslip to teach about bulb propagation and growth cycles in plants.
- Container Planting: Due to its compact size, Cape cowslip is suitable for pot culture, making it an ideal choice for balconies and small patios.
- Floral Art: The striking flowers can be used for creating distinctive pieces of floral art, including corsages and boutonnieres.
- Photography Subject: Because of its unique appearance, Cape cowslip is a popular subject for plant photographers and botanical illustrators.
- Bee Attraction: The flowers of Cape cowslip can attract bees and other pollinators, supporting local ecosystems.
- Division Practice: Cape cowslip bulbs can be divided after several years for propagation, offering gardeners a hands-on experience with vegetative reproduction.
- Theme Gardens: This plant can be featured in a South African native plant garden or a bulb-themed garden display, showcasing its regional heritage and growth form.
- Botanical Research: Cape cowslip can be used in botanical research to study plant responses to various climates and soil conditions outside of its native habitat.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Cape cowslip is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Cape cowslip is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Rarity and Uniqueness: Lachenalia bulbifera, commonly known as Cape Cowslip, is a unique plant native to South Africa. Its symbolism of rarity and uniqueness is due to its distinct appearance and relatively uncommon occurrence outside its native habitat.
- Resilience: As a plant that thrives in rocky soils and withstands tough conditions, Cape Cowslip represents resilience and the ability to adapt to challenging environments.
- Beauty: With its bright and colorful flowers, Cape Cowslip symbolizes beauty and the joy it brings to those who encounter it. The plant's aesthetic appeal underlines the appreciation of natural beauty.
WaterCape Cowslip (Lachenalia bulbifera) should be watered sparingly during its rest period and more frequently while in active growth. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings, and then water thoroughly until excess water drains out. During active growth, watering once a week with about one to two gallons, depending on pot size and environmental conditions, is typically sufficient. Reduce watering after flowering and during dormancy to prevent bulb rot.
LightCape Cowslip thrives in bright, indirect light. A spot near a north-facing window or an east-facing window, where it receives some morning sun but is protected from the harsh afternoon sun, is ideal. Direct sunlight should be avoided as it can scorch the leaves.
TemperatureCape Cowslip does best in moderate temperatures and can tolerate a range from around 50 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit. They should not be exposed to temperatures below 40 degrees Fahrenheit as it can cause damage or kill the plant. An ideal temperature range for promoting active growth is between 55 and 65 degrees Fahrenheit.
PruningPruning Cape Cowslip is not typically necessary but may be done to remove spent flowers and yellowing leaves. Pruning after flowering encourages the plant to divert energy to the bulb for the next season's growth. Prune sparingly and only when necessary to maintain the plant's appearance.
CleaningAs needed
SoilCape cowslip thrives best in a well-draining soil mix, such as a combination of loam, sand, and peat, mimicking its native South African habitat. The ideal pH for the soil should be slightly acidic to neutral, roughly between 6.0 and 7.0.
RepottingCape cowslip should be repotted every 2 to 3 years, ideally during its dormancy period after the foliage has died back, to refresh the soil and provide room for bulb growth.
Humidity & MistingCape cowslip prefers moderate humidity levels, typical of indoor environments; avoid extremely dry or overly moist air to prevent issues.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place cape cowslip in bright, indirect light and keep the soil lightly moist.
Outdoor
Grow cape cowslip in partial shade, protect from hot sun and heavy frost.
Hardiness zone
8-10 USDA
Life cycleLachenalia bulbifera, commonly known as Cape cowslip, begins its life cycle when the underground bulb, a storage organ, breaks dormancy and starts to grow, typically in response to cooler, moist conditions. The bulb sends up a shoot that will develop into the plant's foliage, consisting of lance-shaped leaves. As the plant matures, a flower stalk arises, bearing a spike of brightly colored flowers, which after pollination, can produce seeds. Following the flowering and potential seed set, the above-ground parts of the Lachenalia bulbifera begin to die back as the plant enters a period of dormancy. During this dormant phase, the bulb survives underground, and in the absence of visible growth, it stores energy for the next growing season. The cycle repeats as the environmental conditions become favorable again, usually timed with seasonal changes.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-summer
Lachenalia bulbifera, commonly known as Leopard Lily, is generally propagated through bulb offsets, which is the most popular method. This method takes advantage of the natural production of smaller bulbs, called bulbils, which form at the base of the mother bulb. The best time to propagate Leopard Lily by separating bulbils is in the late summer or early fall when the plant is going dormant after the flowering season. To propagate, gardeners should carefully unearth the bulbs and detach the bulbils from the mother bulb. It's important to handle them gently to avoid damaging the delicate scales. The separated bulbils are then planted in well-draining soil, at a depth of approximately 1 to 2 inches (about 2.5 to 5 cm), and spaced about 3 inches apart (roughly 7.5 cm). This encourages the growth of the new plants in the following growing season, with flowers typically blooming in a year or two as the new bulbs mature.
