Leopard Lily Lachenalia corymbosa
ABOUT
Lachenalia corymbosa, commonly known as the Drakensberg Hyacinth, is a flowering plant that presents a distinct and attractive appearance. It features a rosette of glossy, green, strap-shaped leaves that arise from an underground bulb. During its flowering period, the Drakensberg Hyacinth produces a tall flower spike which bears a cluster of flowers at the top. The flowers are bell-shaped and hang down from the top of the spike. They exhibit a vibrant color palette that can include shades of yellow, orange, and green. Each bell-shaped flower sports a darker-colored margin and may have spotted or speckled markings, adding to the plant's decorative appeal. The overall impression of the Drakensberg Hyacinth is one of a colorful and elegant plant, with a distinctive flower display that can add a touch of brightness to any garden or indoor space.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Cape Cowslip, Soldier Boys
Common names
Lachenalia pendula, Lachenalia orchioides var. corymbosa, Lachenalia orchioides subsp. corymbosa.
ToxicityTo humans
The Cape cowslip (Lachenalia corymbosa) is not well-documented for its toxicity to humans in the majority of available literature. However, many Lachenalia species contain compounds that may be toxic if ingested. Symptoms of ingestion can potentially include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. Always exercise caution and keep plants out of reach of children who might accidentally ingest plant parts. If ingestion occurs, seek medical advice promptly.
To pets
The Cape cowslip (Lachenalia corymbosa) may contain toxic compounds similar to those found in other members of the Lachenalia genus which can be harmful to pets if ingested. While specific information on the toxicity of this plant to pets is not extensively documented, it's prudent to prevent your pets from ingesting this plant. Symptoms of poisoning in pets could include vomiting, diarrhea, and lethargy. If you suspect your pet has ingested any part of the plant, contact your veterinarian immediately.
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
9
Native area
South Africa
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: Lachenalia corymbosa, commonly known as Cape cowslip, adds vibrant colors to gardens and indoor spaces with its striking flowers.
- Seasonal Interest: It blooms in late winter to early spring, providing interest during a time when few other plants flower.
- Easy to Grow: This plant is relatively easy to cultivate in containers or in the ground, making it accessible for gardeners of all skill levels.
- Low Maintenance: Cape cowslip requires minimal care once established, making it suitable for those who desire a hands-off approach to gardening.
- Drought Tolerant: It’s adapted to dry conditions, reducing the need for frequent watering and catering to water conservation efforts.
- Attracts Wildlife: The flowers of the Cape cowslip can attract pollinators such as bees, adding to the biodiversity of the garden.
- Container Gardening: Lachenalia corymbosa is well-suited for container gardening, allowing those with limited space to enjoy its beauty.
- Gift Plant: Its attractive flowers and easy-care nature make Cape cowslip a popular choice as a gift during its blooming season.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Lachenalia corymbosa, commonly known as Leopard lily, can be used in cut flower arrangements due to its attractive and unique flowers that add an exotic touch to any bouquet.
- The Leopard lily's bulbs can be stored during dormant periods and replanted in the following season, making it a sustainable choice for gardeners who wish to reuse and multiply their plant stock.
- Used as a teaching tool in horticultural classes and workshops, Lachenalia corymbosa provides an example of geophytic plant adaptation and bulb formation.
- This species can serve as a companion plant, helping to create a more varied and aesthetically appealing plant display when grown with other bulbs or low-growing plants.
- Due to its striking appearance, the Leopard lily can be employed in garden design and landscaping, particularly in rockeries and alpine garden settings.
- In craft, the dried flowers of Lachenalia corymbosa can be incorporated into potpourri mixtures for a unique color accent.
- For botanical artists and photographers, the Leopard lily provides a captivating subject with its intricate patterns and colors, inspiring works of art and detailed macro photography.
- Could be used in educational settings such as botanical gardens for interpretive signage, helping to illustrate plant diversity and the flora of South Africa.
- This plant can be part of a themed garden, such as a "Spotted and Speckled" garden, showcasing plants with variegated or patterned flowers and leaves.
- The Leopard lily's seasonal blooming pattern can be used by gardeners to create a planned sequence of flowering in their garden, ensuring bursts of color throughout growing periods.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Lachenalia is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Lachenalia is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Resilience: As Lachenalia corymbosa, commonly known as Cape Cowslip, is a hardy plant that blooms even under tough conditions, it is often associated with resilience and the ability to withstand challenges.
- Radiance and Joy: The bright, colorful flowers of the Cape Cowslip are symbolic of vibrancy, bringing a sense of radiance and joy to those who behold them.
- Renewal: Cape Cowslip blooms in the spring, making it a symbol of renewal and the fresh start that comes with the season.
- Rarity: Being less common than some other flowering bulbs, Cape Cowslip could be seen as a symbol of uniqueness or rarity, celebrating the beauty found in less commonly encountered plants.
- Celebration of Beauty: The striking appearance of Cape Cowslip's blooms acts as a reminder to celebrate natural beauty and the aesthetics of the flora world.
WaterCape Cowslip, or Lachenalia corymbosa, prefers to be watered when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. During active growth, typically in the fall through spring, water the plant deeply about once a week, providing around 8-16 ounces depending on pot size. Allow excess water to drain away to prevent root rot. Reduce watering after flowering when the leaves start to yellow and the plant enters dormancy, ensuring the soil remains mostly dry. During this rest period, water sparingly, perhaps once every three to four weeks, just enough to keep the bulbs from completely drying out.
LightCape Cowslip thrives best in bright, indirect light. It can tolerate some direct sunlight, but too much can cause the foliage to burn. A spot near a south or west-facing window with some shade, or an east-facing window where it can bask in the gentle morning sun, would be ideal for this plant. Strong, direct afternoon sun should be avoided to keep the plant in optimal condition.
TemperatureCape Cowslip requires moderate temperature conditions, growing best between 60 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. It can survive minimum temperatures of around 50 degrees Fahrenheit but should not be exposed to temperatures below this threshold as it could cause harm to the plant. The ideal temperature range allows for healthy growth and flowering; thus, it should be protected from drafts and extreme changes in temperature.
PruningCape Cowslip does not generally require extensive pruning, but dead or yellowing leaves should be removed to maintain the plant's health and appearance. Pruning is best done after the flowering period when the plant begins to enter its dormancy stage. It allows for the redirection of energy to the bulbs and helps in preventing disease. Typically, pruning once a year after the blooms have faded is sufficient for the health of the Cape Cowslip.
CleaningAs needed
SoilCape Cowslip thrives in a well-draining, sandy soil mix with slight acidity to neutral pH values, ideally between 6.0 and 7.0. The best soil mix can be made of two parts sand or grit, one part loamy soil, and one part peat or compost to provide nutrients.
RepottingCape Cowslip should be repotted every two to three years as it goes dormant after flowering. This period, usually in late spring or early summer, is the best time for repotting to ensure the bulbs can settle before the next growing season.
Humidity & MistingCape Cowslip prefers moderate humidity levels but is adaptable and can thrive in average home humidity conditions. Aim to keep the humidity consistent, avoiding excessively dry air or overly damp conditions.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place Cape Cowslip in bright, indirect light indoors.
Outdoor
Plant Cape Cowslip in partial shade, shelter from strong winds.
Hardiness zone
9-10 USDA
Life cycleCape Cowslip (Lachenalia corymbosa) begins its life cycle as a bulb, resting dormant underground typically during the dry season. Upon the arrival of cooler, moist conditions, it breaks dormancy and initiates growth, sending up a shoot towards the surface. The shoot develops into a rosette of fleshy, lance-shaped leaves, and as the plant matures, a flowering stem emerges from the center. The stem produces an ornate inflorescence with colorful, tubular flowers that are attractive to pollinators. After pollination and seed formation, the plant enters a senescence phase where the above-ground foliage dies back, and the bulb enters a new dormancy period, conserving energy for the next growing season. The seeds disperse, potentially giving rise to new individuals, and completing the life cycle.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-summer
Propogation: Cape Cowslip (Lachenalia corymbosa) is commonly propagated through division of its bulbs, a process best undertaken at the end of the dormancy period, which typically occurs in late summer or early autumn. To propagate by division, gently lift the dormant bulbs from the soil and separate the offsets from the mother bulb. Each offset must have a portion of the base plate to ensure that it has the necessary tissues to develop into a new plant. Once you have separated the offsets, allow them to dry for a day or two to help prevent rotting when they are replanted. Then, plant the bulbs about 1 to 2 inches deep (2.5 to 5 cm) in well-draining soil, spacing them approximately 3 inches apart (about 7.5 cm). Ensure they receive light but indirect sunlight and moderate watering until the growth begins to show, after which you can increase light and water slightly to support the growing plant.
