Lachenalia orthopetala

Lachenalia orthopetala

Family: Hyacinthaceae

Common name: Straight Viooltjie

It has grass-like leaves that are fleshy with a deep central channel and upward facing white bell-shaped flowers with very distinctive dark brown gibbosities adding contrast. The peduncle is also a contrasting deep maroon which helps set off the white flowers.

Sowing instructions: Seed is best sown in autumn in deep seed trays or pots in a sterilized medium of equal parts fine compost or loam, and river sand. Sow the seed thinly to prevent overcrowding and fungal infection, and to allow sufficient room for each seedling’s bulb to develop. Cover with a thin layer of sand, and keep moist and shaded. Germination should occur within five weeks.

Locality: Piketberg. Harvest: November 2023