Cape Hedgehog Lily

In late winter, sprays of white flowers, with long filaments, open in the centre of the leaves. The blooms have a rose fragrance, though it isn't very strong.
The fat, emerald green foliage has dark shading that varies with each seedling. They are covered in lots of little bumps. Hedgehog Lily leaves lay flat on the soil. Their size and shape makes them perfect for potted plantings.
The foliage emerges in autumn, and is soon followed by the flowers. It is a good idea to leave the flower heads on, as the seed heads remain attractive, turning from green to bronze. There is also a high likely hood that the seed will be viable and can be potted on. The seed heads are around 5-7cm across. Hedgehog Lilies are summer dormant, and should be kept as dry as possible at this time.
Hedgehog Lilies originate in the arid areas of South Africa, they grow best in sharply drained soil in a sunny spot. They will grow well in pots, and we recommended using a succulent or cactus potting mix. You can bring them indoors during the growing season, place them in bright light.
The botanical name, Massonia, is named for Francis Masson, who worked with Sir Joseph Banks, collecting seeds from South Africa, for Kew Gardens.
In the wild, Massonia bulbs are pollinated by rodents such as gerbils. They eat the gelatinous nectar from the blooms, moving the pollen from one plant to the next.

Supplied as: Bulbs