Veltheimia bracteata

Veltheimia bracteata is the most widely grown of this small group of South African bulbs.

Sometimes referred to as the ‘Forest lily’ this gives us an insight into growing conditions.

These are shade lovers and much prefer indirect light. Frost can be a problem, especially heavy frosts which will damage the foliage fairly quickly.

We have found that Veltheimia like to be left alone, undisturbed.

Once established they are happy to multiply and flower with little trouble, they seem to ‘sulk a little’ after being moved.

The flowers appear as pink spikes and rise well above the glossy green foliage.

They grow well in shade so are suited to planting beneath large trees where they add colour at an otherwise dull time of the year. The flowers are long lasting, around 4 weeks is common.

How To Grow Veltheimia bracteata – Care and general conditions

These bulbs can be grown easily in pots and containers and work well as an indoor plant, they hold their flowers over a long period. Flowers will begin to appear in early winter and open up mid to late winter.

These are a deciduous bulb that prefers a shaded dry position. Glossy green foliage and flowers pink or white during winter. Both Veltheimia bracteata and the sun loving Veltheimia capensis die back during summer. Yellow flowering varieties are also available. (rare)

How to Plant Velthiemia bracteata Bulbs

When planting Veltheimia the bulbs should be planted at ground level, the base and roots are planted in the ground, with the top of the bulb above the ground.

We grow them in pots in a shaded position where they do well, as well as in the ground at the base of Southern Beech Tree. We use a  liquid seaweed fertiliser in spring as they begin to show signs of life.

The best time to start dividing larger clumps is in summer as the bulbs go through their short dormancy. Propagating Veltheimia from seed or by leaf cuttings placed in a sharp sand is also possible..

1. Plant in good soil with the top of the bulb just above the soil level.
2. Water in well with a liquid seaweed fertiliser.
3. When the foliage is in active growth, water during dry periods.
4. Fertilise with a liquid fertiliser when in active growth.
5. Cut back on water as the plants enter dormancy in summer.

Veltheimia capensis is a different species that grows well in full sun.

Summary Information

• Botanical Name – Veltheimia bracteata
• Common Name – Cape hyacinth, Forest Lily, Veldt Lily
• Position – Dappled shade.
• Soil – Humus rich well drained.
• Height – To 0.3m
• Spread To 0.2m
• Type of Plant – Bulb
• Flowers – Pink to rosy pink although colour is variable.
• Flowering time – Late winter to spring.
• Foliage – Glossy green
• Frost tolerant – Medium
• Drought tolerant – Tolerates dry summers
• Growth rate – medium
• Problems – Slugs and snails.

Where to grow.

• Beneath tall trees and shrubs allowing good filtered light.
• Amongst tall ornamental grasses
• In the general garden border
• Try planting bulbs in containers and pots where they can be displayed when in flower.

Velthemia are available for sale from the following nurseries

 

WHITE HOUSE NURSERY - Jess Exiner & Peter Harris
412 James Lane, Fern Hill VIC. 3458 - Phone 0419002651
Large range of Rare plants, Climbers, Bulbs, Perennials Fruit Trees, Ornamental Trees and Shrubs. Available both Retail and by Mail Order 
www.whitehousenursery.com.au