Hyacinthaceae

Subfamily
Tribe Bowieae

Lachenalia aloides (L.f.) Engl.

Description: [syn. Lachenalia tricolor Jacq.f.]
This is a widely distributed, complex species consisting of many different forms. It is almost always associated with rocky habitat and occurs in coastal areas from Lamberts Bay to the Cape Peninsula, east to Bredasdorp, and as far inland as the Worcester district.
L. aloides is easily recognized by its lanceolate or lorate, usually heavily marked leaves, and its inflorescence of pendulous, cylindrical flowers in which the inner perianth segments protrude conspicuously.
This species has been used extensively in hybridization.

Culture: Genus restricted to the winter rainfall regions of South Africa. Bright light with good air circulation. Must have media with excellent drainage.
Bulbs begin to become active as soon as temperatures begin to fall after the summer. Once temperatures drop, pots should be watered thoroughly once and then wait until new growth appears. Infrequent heavy irrigation is preferable to frequent, light watering which can lead to rotting of the bulb. It is always preferable for the media to be slightly dry rather than too wet.
Foliage will begin to yellow as temperatures rise in summer and water should be completely withheld and containers moved to a cool, dry location once the foliage has withered.