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Massonia pustulata |
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by Lynas Cardy |
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This odd-looking plant is Massonia
pustulata, a member of Liliaceae from South Africa.
I must have seen a photograph of it, or read of it, and was
attracted to it as a curiosity. The label 1/97
suggests that it was grown from A.G.S.seed.
Such seed was on offer in the Seed Exchange this year.
It is kept in the alpine house, has been repotted several
times, presently in a 5" pot, and perhaps needing one
slightly larger.
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| The compost is 60%
John Innes no. 3 and
40% grit. There are currently two bulbs, each with
two stiff, prostrate leaves, shiny and pimply.
Each flower consists of many six-sided florets; each floret
with six stamens; female parts not easily seen.
This is the fourth year of flowering which provides a welcome
bit of colour from the end of November through into January.
The flower is said to be fragrant, but I cannot confirm that.
Volume 2 of the A.G.S. Encyclopaedia says it is the hardiest
of the several specimens listed. and likens the flower to a
shaving brush. |
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