Cape Lily Veltheimia

There are two species of Veltheimia that bloom at different times of the year. One in spring and one in autumn to early winter. Flower color varies also from reds to yellows. They are very ornamental bulbs from South Africa.

Veltheimia bracteata flowers in the spring and is from the eastern part of South Africa.  This almost evergreen species grows best in light shade and will benefit from reduced watering in the summer.  They have shiny pale to deep green leaves and pink tubular flowers.  It can range from evergreen in some climates to leafless for a few late summer months into fall in other climates.

Veltheimia capensis is from western South Africa, which has a dryer climate. It flowers from fall into early winter.  Growing in full sun will encourage this deciduous plant to flower.  Blooms in late fall into winter on rocky slopes.  This deciduous species has a dull gray-green to grayish foliage.  It reddish-pink flowers are clustered into a dense head.  

Plant in at least a 6-inch pot at a 1-inch depth with the top just showing above the surface.   When growing from seed, ensure that the pots are located in a shady area and receive a daytime to nighttime temperature swing.       

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems:  No serious issues.