Veltheimia bracteata

Veltheimia bracteata
Scientific classification
Kingdom: Plantae
Clade: Angiosperms
Clade: Monocots
Order: Asparagales
Family: Asparagaceae
Subfamily: Scilloideae
Genus: Veltheimia
Species: V. bracteata
Binomial name
Veltheimia bracteata
Harv. ex Baker[1]

Veltheimia bracteata belongs to the genus Veltheimia, which contains only one other species, Velthemia capensis.[2] Veltheimia bracteata is commonly referred to as the forest lily, sand onion, or red hot poker.[2] This pendent shaped plant ranges in color from a yellowish pink to red. It is a winter flowering perennial plant, so is in full bloom when other flowers have withered away. Plants grow to be 12–18 inches (30–46 cm) in height.[3]

Description

Veltheimia bracteata is a bulbous plant with glossy leaves. The flower stems arise from a rosette of basal leaves and blossom in an inflorescence arrangement which is typically surrounded by dense spikes. Plants are pollinated by birds.[3] A fleshy seed is then produced at the end of August.[4]

Veltheimia bracteata and V. capensis can interbreed and produce hybrids.[5]

Distribution

Veltheimia bracteata is native to the south-eastern Cape Provinces of South Africa.[6]

Cultivation

V. bracteata is generally planted in early fall and is in full bloom till spring time. These plants have become popular in people's gardens because they do not need much and they add beauty to a winter garden. They grow in the shade, without much water, and can prosper in low temperatures. They are used to decorate houses, walkways and public facilities to bring a tropical feel.[4]

References

Wikimedia Commons has media related to Veltheimia bracteata.
  1. ↑ "Veltheimia bracteata". World Checklist of Selected Plant Families. Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. Retrieved 2012-04-23.
  2. 1 2 "Veltheimia bracteata". Plantzafrica.com. Retrieved 2012-04-21.
  3. 1 2 The Royal Horticultural Society (1989). Encyclopedia of Plants and Flowers. NY: DK Publishing.
  4. 1 2 "Veltheimia bracteata - Forrest Lily, Sand onion, Winter red hot poker". Plantdatabase.com.au. Retrieved 2012-04-21.
  5. ↑ "Veltheimia". Pacific Bulb Society. 2012-01-19. Retrieved 2012-04-27.
  6. ↑ "Veltheimia bracteata", World Checklist of Selected Plant Families, Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, retrieved 2015-08-09
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