Albuca spiralis 'Frizzle Sizzle'

Scientific Name

Albuca spiralis 'Frizzle Sizzle'

Common Name(s)

Corkscrew Albuca, Spiral Leaved Albuca, Spiral Albuca, Slime Lily, Helicopter Plant, Curly Albuca, Sticky Corkscrew Lily

Scientific Classification

Family: Asparagaceae
Subfamily: Scilloideae
Genus: Albuca

Origin

Albuca spiralis 'Frizzle Sizzle' is a cultivar of Albuca spiralis.

Description

Albuca spiralis 'Frizzle Sizzle' is a winter-growing bulb that forms small groups of corkscrew leaves and one central flower spike bearing hanging yellow and green flowers during the growing season. It can grow up to 8 inches (20 cm) tall. The leaves are green and up to 8 inches (20 cm) long. The plant goes dormant in summer after flowering.

This cultivar grows faster and has more strongly spiraled leaves than the species.

Hardiness

USDA hardiness zones 9a to 11b: from 20 °F (−6.7 °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. However, 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 it is 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.

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