Scientific Name
Albuca namaquensis Baker
Common Name(s)
Spiral Grass
Synonym(s)
Ornithogalum namaquense
Scientific Classification
Family: Asparagaceae
Subfamily: Scilloideae
Genus: Albuca
Origin
Albuca namaquensis is native to stony sandstone slopes from Namibia to the Eastern Cape, South Africa.
Description
Albuca namaquensis is a small geophyte with deciduous curly leaves and tall bloom stalks with pale yellow flowers. It can grow up to 1 foot (30 cm) tall. The leaves are rough, hairy, or smooth. If hairs are present, they are not glandular. In dry and sunny conditions, its leaves coil like Albuca spiralis; thus, these plants are often mistakenly called Albuca spiralis. In cultivation, the leaves may remain evergreen if water is available.
Hardiness
USDA hardiness zones 9b to 11b: from 25 °F (−3.9 °C) to 50 °F (+10 °C).
How to Grow and Care
Albucas require sandy, loose soil in full to partial sun to produce their characteristic blooms. The plants can grow 3 to 4 feet (90 to 120 cm) tall with a slightly smaller width. Good cultivation encourages the removal of the bulb from the outdoors in zones with frost. They are not frost-hardy, and cold temperatures can damage the bulb.
These South African natives look particularly attractive in rock gardens, slopes, and containers. The biggest requirement for Albuca care is superior drainage. The regions to which they are native are not known for consistent moisture, which means they are drought-tolerant once established. Consistent watering at planting is necessary to mimic the rainy season, but after that, light watering is all that is necessary when caring for Albuca.
Fertilize Albucas annually at installation and in the early spring with good all-purpose bulb food. Cut back spent foliage after it yellows and begins to wilt.
Learn more at How to Grow and Care for Albuca.
Links
- Back to genus Albuca
- Succupedia: Browse succulents by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, Origin, or cacti by Genus
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