Veltheimia bracteata aka Forest Lily

Taxonomy

Genus Veltheimia Family Asparagaceae Order Asparagales Class Liliopsida Phylum Tracheophyta
Veltheimia bracteata, also known as the forest lily, sand onion, or red hot poker, is a species of plant belonging to the genus Veltheimia. It is a bulbous perennial that grows up to 45cm in height. The plant features a basal rosette of strap-shaped, undulate, glossy leaves, and spike-like racemes of tubular pink flowers on stout erect purplish stems. Native to the Eastern Cape of Africa, it thrives in forests and coastal scrub locations. This winter-flowering plant blooms in late winter to early spring, standing out when other flowers have withered away. After blooming, the plant enters a dormant stage, only to reemerge with new leaves in late summer to fall. Outside its native range, it is commonly grown as a houseplant or in containers.

Common names

Forest Lily

How to care for Forest Lily

Difficulty

Forest Lily is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal attention, making it an excellent choice for beginners.

Water

Forest Lily should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Soil

Forest Lily loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.

Lighting

Forest Lily requires abundant, bright and direct light. Placing it less than one foot from a window is the best way to make sure the plant receives enough light to survive and thrive. Depending on your region, however, the current weather can affect the placement of the plant in your home. For example, in some areas the sun may be too direct and intense, so it's best to place it farther away from the window. You may also need to adjust your placement according to the season as the sunlight can change intensity over the course of the year. If you live in a region with significant temperature fluctuations, such as a desert, you may need to place the plant a bit farther away from the window to avoid extreme heat or cold. With some care and attention, your Forest Lily will be sure to bring you many years of beauty and enjoyment.

Toxicity

Ploi's records do not contain confirmed information on the toxicity of this particular plant. In the event of accidental ingestion of plant material with questionable toxicity by you, a family member, or a pet, it is always a good idea to consult a healthcare professional.

Growth-pattern

The Forest Lily is clumping in nature, with new growth originating from the soil in close proximity to the original plant.

More info:
Wikipedia

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