Boophone disticha

Boophone disticha. (100 seeds)

Family: Amaryllidaceae.

Common names: Fan-leaved Boophane, Gifbol.

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.

Sowing instructions : Sow seeds in deep seed trays as soon as possible after harvesting in a very well-drained, sandy medium to which some fine compost is added. Press lightly into the soil, so that the top of the seed remains visible. Water well once and then again only after the first leaves appear. After that, water well once every two to three weeks.

Locality: Grahamstown. Harvest: January 2024