A very attractive yet rarely seen flowering bulb is Rhodophiala bifida. It is originally from Chile, Uruguay, Argentina, and surrounding areas. They flower in late summer to early autumn, a reliable reminder of the change of seasons.
Sometimes referred to as the ‘BloodLily’, ‘Hurricane Lily’ or ‘Ox Blood Lily’. Pink and white species are also available for sale at times. This bulb was previously known as Hippeastrum adevenum, and seem to have recently been reclassifies as Zephranthes, and they are indeed it is a part of the amazing Amaryllis group.
Although Rhodophiala bifida is widely grown in the southern USA where they seem to have hybridised the species a fair bit. We have been growing this easy bulb in containers for a number of years, it flowers reliably and is very easy care.
Well worth a spot in the garden, they are compact and easy care and a joy when in flower.
How to grow Rhodophiala bifida Basic Care
This is a bulb that grows well in pots or in a well drained, sunny position in the garden or rock garden. It will produce offsets which can be separated during dormant periods. Preferring a sunny well drained position and a dry summer dormancy Rhodophiala bifida springs to life when the autumn rains are about to begin.
- Full sun.
- Humus rich well drained soil.
- Propagation is from seed or by offsets.
- Some moisture over summer is important, a desiccated soil at this time can harm the bulbs.
Propagation
They will produce offsets which can be separated during dormant periods. If you water them well in late summer and apply some fertiliser at the same time, the they seem to multiply more readily.
Propagation from seed is also possible.
Did You Know?
Rhodophiala bifida are widely grown in Texas however they are not native to the area. In the early 1800s they were introduced by German settlers
Rhodophiala bifida is available for sale from the following nurseries
'Sylvan Vale' 375 Olinda Creek Rd, Kalorama, VIC.3766
Including a large range of Rare and unusual bulbs, corms and perennials
www.tonkinsbulbs.com.au
