Albuca namaquensis is a small geophyte with deciduous curly leaves and tall bloom stalks with pale yellow flowers. It grows up to 1 foot (30 cm) tall. Leaves are rough or hairy, or smooth. If hairs are present, they are not glandular. In dry and sunny conditions, its leaves coil like Albuca spiralis, and thus these plants are often mistakenly called A. spiralis. In cultivation, the leaves may remain evergreen if water is available. Albucas require sandy, loose soil in full to partial sun to produce their characteristic blooms. The plants can grow 3 to 4 feet (90 to 120...
Albuca namaquensis is a small geophyte with deciduous curly leaves and tall bloom stalks with pale yellow flowers. It grows up to 1 foot (30 cm) tall. Leaves are rough or hairy, or smooth. If hairs are present, they are not glandular. In dry and sunny conditions, its leaves coil like Albuca spiralis, and thus these plants are often mistakenly called A. spiralis. In cultivation, the leaves may remain evergreen if water is available. Albucas require sandy, loose soil in full to partial sun to produce their characteristic blooms. The plants can grow 3 to 4 feet (90 to 120 cm) tall with a slightly smaller width. Good cultivation encourages the removal of the bulb from the outdoors in zones with frost. They are not frost-hardy, and cold temperatures can damage the bulb.
These South African natives look particularly attractive in rock gardens, slopes, and even containers. The biggest requirement for Albuca care is superior drainage. The regions to which they are native are not known for consistent moisture, which means it is drought tolerant once established. Consistent watering at planting is necessary to mimic the rainy season, but after that, light watering is all that is necessary when caring for Albuca.
Fertilize Albucas annually at installation and in the early spring with good all-purpose bulb food. Cut back spent foliage after it yellows and begins to wilt.
