Description
Boophane disticha ? Fan-leaved Boophone (e), Gifbol (a), leshoma (SS), incumbe (Sw), incotho (z,x). Very, hardy, deciduous plant with a huge bulb. In warm areas the bulb is held above the soil while in colder areas is is below ground level as a protection against frost. The large red flower head appears in early spring before the leaves. The grey-leaves are held in a twisted fan shape and are most attractive. Once the flowers have been pollinated each flower stalk elongates and carries the seed on the end to form a tumbleweed. This is the plants strategy for distributing its seeds. Plant in full sun or semi-shade with an exposed bulb. Extensively used in traditional medicine.
