Please note this species isย dormantย in summer and may not have leaves if purchased during the warmer months of the year.
Where it grows
Albuca spiralis is indigenous to South Africa, specifically to the Western and Northern Cape provinces. They range from Namaqualand at the northernmost point of their range, and southwards towards the Worcester area.
Special features
These geophytes have an intriguing leaf shape that makes them highly sought after. Instead of being straight, the leaf tips twirl around themselves into a corkscrew shape. The more sun the plant receives, the more pronounced the corkscrew effect.
The bulbs of Albuca spiralis only produce leaves in winter, and are dormant during summer. The bulbs produce offsets by division, but very slowly. They produce small yellow flowers quite late in winter that may last until spring.
Care Guide
Give these bulbs plenty of light during the growing season. Generally, 40% shade cloth should be sufficient, and they can be adjusted to full morning sun. A mix of sandy soil with a gritty component is ideal, as the bulbs are quite sensitive to overwatering. It is very important to only water these plants in autumn and winter, as they are dormant in summer. During dormancy, they are extremely prone to rotting if watered.
Growing season
Autumn and winter.
Propagation
Offsets.