Silver Squill and Others
Coming in a number of forms some Ledebouria have striped leaves, some spotted leaves and others green leaves. Commonly called African Hyacinth, or Common Squill it is L.socialis that is known as the Silver Squill.
With changes to nomenclature some of these bulbs will be better known as Scilla. So L. socialis is synonymous for Scilla socialis. Ledebouria cooperi is also known as scilla cooperi.
They are very drought tolerant and are classed as bulbous succulents by many growers and as bulb forming perennials by others.
Coming in a number of forms some Ledebouria have striped leaves, some spotted leaves and others green leaves. Commonly called African Hyacinth, or Common Squill it is L.socialis that is known as the Silver Squill..
Ledebouria Varieties
- L.floribunda
- L. socialis – Upright green foliage flecked with creamy white.
- L.petioloata – aka Drimiopsis maculata. Broad lance shaped foliage, mid green with dark brown to red specks. small white flowers.
- L.cooperi with pink flowers and interesting foliage is a very attractive form.
- L. pauciflora – Upright foliage green flecked.
- Ledebouria ovatifolia – Has flat-leaves and amazing rounded flowers, rarely offered for sale.
How to Grow Ledebouria – Basic Care
These are very drought tolerant and are classed as bulbous succulents by many growers and as bulb forming perennials by others.
Native to South Africa, try a humus rich well drained soil. They like a little shade and will work well a potted plants.
- A free draining succulent and cactus potting mix is best.
- In the garden, add some extra drainage material such as scoria or grit and ensure the soil drains well.
- Ledebouria prefer good filtered light to part shade, depending on the climate zone. With a good 5 hours of filtered or morning light each day during the growing season.
- Plant bulbs just 1 – 2 cm apart so they form a clump
- Bulbs are planted with half of the bulb above the soil, the roots and the lower half are below the soil.
- Allow the growing medium to dry between watering.
- Use a 1/3 strength fertiliser every 2 – 3 weeks from spring through summer.
- Use a 1/3 strength fertiliser once in spring.
- Repot every 3 – 4 years.
A cool dry winter dormancy is needed so grow these plants in pots, and shift them to a sheltered area over winter, holding back on water.
As spring comes around commence watering, although they do need a wet dry watering cycle.
Ledebouria Propagation
Propagation by Division
Easy by removing offsets when repotting. The best time to repot is immediately after flowering
- When To Divide: After flowering (late summer/autumn) during rest phase
- How to Divide: Unpot, gently seperate the pups from mother bulb keeping as much of root system intact; use clean sharp knife if needed
- Callus cut areas: Allow offsets to callus over, the cut area needs to dry for 24-48 hours before replanting to prevent rot.
- Replanting: Use a specialist succulent/cactus mix; position 1/3 bulb above soil. Water sparingly until growth resumes.
Propagation From Seed
Seeds germinate in 6 weeks to 3 months but take years to mature, often losing parent traits. Reserve for breeders targeting “Ledebouria seed propagation”. Sow in rich, draining mix under bright shade; expect variable variegation.
Problems
| Issue | Causes | Fixes |
|---|---|---|
| No Flowers | No cool/dry dormancy (10-15°C winter); overcrowding | Reduce water, lower temps in autumn/winter; divide dense clusters. |
| Stunted growth | Pot-bound bulbs; poor drainage | Repot post-bloom in fresh mix; check every 3 years |
Where To Buy
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
'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
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