Scientific Name
Albuca spiralis L.f.
Common Name(s)
Corkscrew Albuca, Spiral-leaved Albuca, Spiral Albuca, Slime Lily, Helicopter Plant, Curly Albuca, Sticky Corkscrew Lily
Synonym(s)
Falconera spiralis, Ornithogalum circinatum, Ornithogalum volutare
Scientific Classification
Family: Asparagaceae
Subfamily: Scilloideae
Genus: Albuca
Etymology
The specific epithet "spiralis" (pronounced "spir-AH-liss") means "spiraling" and refers to the narrow leaves of this species that curve, forming a spiral.
Origin
Albuca spiralis is native to South Africa (Western and Northern Cape Provinces).
Description
Albuca spiralis is a small geophyte recognizable by its distinctive green, narrow, spiral-tipped leaves with glandular hairs. The leaves grow from a bulbous base and can reach up to 8 inches (20 cm) in length. The bulb can grow up to 2 inches (5 cm) in height and diameter.
One central flower spike appears in late winter to early spring, bearing green flowers with pale yellow margins.
Cultivars of Albuca spiralis
How to Grow and Care for Albuca spiralis
Hardiness: USDA hardiness zones 9a to 11b: from 20°F (-6.7°C) to 50°F (10°C).
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. However, they are not frost-hardy, and cold temperatures can damage the bulbs.
These South African natives are particularly well-suited for rock gardens, slopes, and containers. The most significant 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 sufficient for 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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