Cape Cowslip or Leopard Lily
A colourful and varied group of bulbs from South Africa, Lachenalia are a wonderful choice for a sunny position in the garden border, or try growing them in containers for a brilliant seasonal display. Commonly known as the Cape Cowslipor sometimes the Leopard Lily, these bulbs offer both vibrant flowers and attractive foliage.
Tubular, bell-shaped flowers appear from late winter into spring, while summer is their natural dormant period. Many species share a similar form but vary widely in flower colour—ranging from yellow and green through to red-tipped and even maroon tones. The foliage can also be highly decorative, often marked with spots, which gives rise to the name Leopard Lily.
One of the most popular species is Lachenalia aloides, although there is considerable variation within this group. Forms range from the golden yellow flowers of L. aloides ‘aurea’ to the aptly named L. quadricolor, which displays four distinct colours in each bloom.
For best effect, grow Lachenalia in pots where their intricate flowers can be appreciated up close. Good drainage is essential, as bulbs will quickly rot in wet conditions.
How To Grow Lachenalia and Basic Care
Lachenalia are easy to grow provided their natural cycle is understood. These are winter-growing bulbs, so their care differs slightly from many other garden plants.
A well-drained, sunny position is ideal. They prefer a cool environment during their growing season and are not frost tolerant, so protection is essential in colder climates. A cold greenhouse or a sheltered outdoor spot in milder regions is perfect.
Growth begins in autumn, often as early as late March depending on the season. This is the time to begin watering. Keep the soil lightly moist through winter as the plants actively grow and flower.
Once flowering has finished and the leaves begin to die back, reduce watering. During summer dormancy, bulbs should be kept dry.
Growing Conditions and Natural Habitat
In their natural habitat, Lachenalia are found in the winter rainfall regions of southern Africa, from coastal areas near Cape Town through to inland regions such as Namibia and the Karoo. They occur in a wide range of environments—from sandy coastal plains and mountain slopes to wetter margins and dry inland areas.
Because of this diversity, different species can have slightly different needs, so there is no strict “one-size-fits-all” approach. However, most share a preference for a Mediterranean-style climate: cool, moist winters followed by warm, dry summers.
To replicate this in the garden:
- Provide free-draining soil or potting mix
- Water during winter growth
- Keep dry during summer dormancy
Temperature and Position
Lachenalia prefer cool growing conditions and will tolerate low temperatures, but frost should always be avoided. Temperatures below 0°C can damage or kill the bulbs.
They are well suited to:
- Cold greenhouses
- Bright, sheltered patios
- Sunny winter positions in the garden (in mild climates)
Propagation
Propagation is by seed or division. Established clumps can be divided during the summer dormant period. However, they do tend to perform well when slightly crowded, so avoid over-dividing.
Lachelalia Varieties
With over 100 species here are few of the most commonly grown species.
- L. Pendula with its bright orange flowers.
- L. bulbifera has red flowers and commonly caller ‘Soldier Boys’.
- L. namaquensis has violet blue flowers.
- L. viridifolia with its turquoise flowers are popular species.e\
- Lachenalia quadricolor
- L. quadricolor is easy to grow and a colourful addition to the rock garden or for growing in containers, is readily available and provides a brilliant splash of colour in the winter months.
From the southwest Cape Provinces of South Africa, the flowers do have four colours as the name suggests.
The flowers are tubular in shape and appear in clusters along the stem. Lachenalia quadricolor is related to Lachenalia aloides however is not regarded as invasive as its yellow flowering relative. - L. aloides is perhaps the most common of the cultivated species however it can be invasive in some climates.
Our Thoughts
Lachenalia make excellent ornamental pot plants, valued for both their bright, long-lasting flowers and their often beautifully spotted leaves. With the right seasonal care-cool, moist winters and dry summers- they are rewarding and surprisingly easy to grow.
Where To Buy
357 Monbulk Road SILVAN VIC 3795
Guaranteed "garden worthy" bulbs, plants and perennials. Visit the website to browse our large range of daffodils or request the latest free catalogue.
www.tesselaar.net.au
470 Monbulk-Silvan Road Monbulk VIC 3793
"Guaranteed mail order flowering bulbs, perennials, roses, trees, landscaping plants, garden accessories and community fundraising Austra lia-wide."
www.gardenexpress.com.au