Massonia latebrosa (Adult 2022)

Massonia latebrosa has purple streaks and markings on the pustulated leaves and green and reddish flowers.

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. latebrosa is similar to and related to M. echinata. It is known from only a few locations. It has purple streaks and markings on the pustulated leaves and green and reddish flowers. 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:  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:  4-8"

Primary Bloom Colour:  Green

Secondary Bloom Colour:  Red

Bloom Time:  Fall - Winter

Foliage Colour:  Burgundy/Red/Purple, Green

Class:  Deciduous

Type:  Tender

Soil Moisture:  Dry

Stem Colour:  

Fragrance:  Yes

Berries:  

Benefits:  Bees

Deer Resistant:  Unknown

BC Native:  No

Native Habitat:  Winter rainfall region in the Western Cape.

Award:  AGM

Geographical Origin:  Southern Africa and Madagascar