Massonia hirsuta (Adult 2022)
Massonia hirsuta has rounded, smooth to hairy, light green leaves and white very fragrant flowers with black stamens.
Massonia is a genus of peculiar, southern African, alien-like bulbs related to hyacinths that grow two opposite prostrate leaves that hug the ground topped with a stemless cluster of green, white or pink flowers that sit atop the leaves or rise on strange stalks. It’s a perfect group for succulent lovers and those who love oddball things! M. hirsuta hails from the Eastern Cape. It has rounded, smooth to hairy, light green leaves and white very fragrant flowers with black stamens and bracts with hairs on the margins. The leaves and flowers grow in fall, winter and spring with bulbs dormant in summer. Reduce watering when dormant in summer but do not allow to go bone dry. Plant the bulbs with the top just below the soil surface. This is a non-hardy bulb best grown as a houseplant or in a heated greenhouse or sunroom. It’s perfect for those interested in bulbs and houseplants and for succulent lovers looking to branch out. Our nursery-grown bulbs are adult blooming size as of 2022. Visit the webpage of the Pacific Bulb Society to view photos of this cool species.
Common Name: Dune Hedgehog Lily - [Summer B&B Pre-Order]
Family: Asparagaceae (The Asparagus Family)
Zone Hardiness: 10-11
Light: Part Sun, Part Shade
Height: under 4"
Width: 8-12"
Primary Bloom Colour: White/Cream
Secondary Bloom Colour: Black
Bloom Time: Fall - Winter
Foliage Colour: Green
Class: Deciduous
Type: Tender
Soil Moisture: Average
Stem Colour:
Fragrance: Yes
Berries:
Benefits: Bees
Deer Resistant: Unknown
BC Native: No
Native Habitat: Eastern Cape and the winter rainfall region. It's common name suggests a presence on dunes and sandy areas.
Award: AGM
Geographical Origin:
