African - Forest lily , tender perennial

African

Forest lily (Veltheimia bracteata), tender perennial

Flowering bulb, Height (up to): 61 cm (24 in.)

Commentary

Veltheimia bracteata
 
These winter-flowering deciduous bulbs boast tubular blooms of pastel pink and yellow. The glossy foliage dies back in the summer. Gardner Museum horticulturists encourage the bulbs’ dormancy after flowering by gradually reducing watering, allowing them to dry down for storage in a dry, dark place. In the fall, we return the bulbs to the greenhouses and gradually increase watering. Because Veltheimia thrives in semi-shaded forest understory, it fares well in the Courtyard along with the many other South African natives in the living collection.