Description
COLCHICACEAE
Image supplied by: BENSON FLOWERS LTD New Zealand
“Christmas Bells”
0.4-1m bulb
Lantern-like Orange flowers in summer
Grows in damp grasslands, bulbs need to be kept dry during the winter or they may rot
Fantastic Cut Flower
Should be sown in Spring when the difference between day and night temperatures is about 12°C. Seeds need cold stratification to germinate
Medicinal uses: Neither Silverhill nor individual staff members can take any responsibility for any consequences, should anyone try any of these uses or remedies.
Growing Hints
Sandersonia aurantiaca needs cold stratification before planting. Soak them in water for 24 hours, then mix with vermiculite and store in a fridge at 5-6º C for about 3 months. This is to try and mimic the natural growing conditions.
“Down to minus 4 C and daytime 8 – 15 C. We have variable number of nights through the winter below freezing. It is not a constant like a fridge or freezer. but variations of day and night” – Benson Flowers New Zealand
Sow the seeds in well-drained, aerated and slightly acidic growing medium, in early Summer when the weather is still cool.
Plant in deep pots.
After planting the pots should be watered and then left until the leaf shoots appear.
Germination can take up to 6 weeks. Prick out the seedlings once the first true leaves appear.
Germination can be very erratic, so don’t throw the soil away as more seeds might germinate in subsequent years. Keep the pot watered, but not wet.
Grow in morning sun and afternoon shade
