Calostemma

Calostemma

Calostemma is a small genus from Australia belonging to the Amaryllidaceae and this is the only wholly endemic Australian genus in this family. It comprises just two species, as far as I know, one yellow, one purple. Reports of white flowered species (alba and scott-sellickiana) refer to the related but distinct genus Proiphys.

Both species bloom in autumn and the flowers are borne in an umbel of six to eighteen blooms on a leafless stem, 20-50 cm high. Flower colour is either pure yellow or purplish red according to species. Both have a floral tube paler than the petals, both have yellow anthers. Each trumpet-shaped flower is held on a long, thin pedicel and is about 2 cm long.

It flowers best after dry periods so should be allowed to dry off after the leaves yellow. Growth is improved by the application of slow released fertiliser. Seeds germinate on the plants and should be sown in a well-drained mix, placed in a warm spot and protected from snails and slugs.



Order from Autumn list only.

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Calostemma purpureum

Calostemma purpureum

There are not that may Australian bulbs compared to other parts of the world, there are fewer Amaryllids, there are fewer still really good ones, but this is one of the best.

The small bulbs make umbels of about 20, attractive, deep-purple flowers each of which has a shallow trumpet, akin to a daffodil. These carry a faint, pleasant scent, evident close to the flower. It loses its leaves in summer, at which time it needs a dry rest before flowering and re-commencement of leaf growth in the Autumn. Seed, when produced, germinates on the plant, in the manner of many South African species and it needs to be sown at once.

Probably tender in the UK, but growable outside in slightly warmer areas. It likes a well drained, loam based soil but one with plenty of organic matter present as well.

This really is an outstanding rarity and one we are delighted to list, at last. Incidentally, the combination and spelling of Calostemma purpureum, is the correct one.

Pictures © Angelo Porcelli, with permission and my thanks.

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Calostemma purpureumcalpurpur £16.50
Naturally makes only quite small bulbs.
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