Albuca nelsonii

Albuca nelsonii

This unusual bulb, which comes into bloom around October to December, has an intriguing form, resembling a sort of ornate floral candlestick. It is known colloquially as candelabrum lily! It belonged to the Hyacinthaceae family of plants originally but is now classified as part of the Asparagaceae family. It grows to 80 cm and is from South Africa. It has a profusion of unusual green-striped white flowers; the outer three tepals flare out around the cluster of the inner tepals: they almost look like giant snowdrops. They are related to and resemble Ornithogalum, which I have never been successful in growing, though I have occasionally seen clumps of them growing well in nearby suburbs.

Hydrangea shrubs with Albuca nelsonii in foreground

Hydrangea shrubs with Albuca nelsonii in foreground

The large bulb sits above the ground and the glossy green strappy leaves are lush all year round. The flowers last well in vases. The bulbs multiply fairly quickly and can be grown in pots. This bulb is very drought tolerant and flowers best in sun but will also do well in part shade. I enjoy seeing it growing nearby white Hydrangea shrubs, which are in bloom at the same time, and which usually have a greenish tinge about their buds, echoing the green on the Albuca petals! Protect the leaves from slugs and snails.

Note: I have previously referred to this plant as Albuca altissima.