Bulbine narcissifolia

Also Known As

Snake Flower
Strap-Leaf Bulbine

Plant type

cactus / succulent

size

H: 12"-24"
W: 12"

planting zones

8a-11

Bulbine narcissifolia plant details

Bulbine narcissifolia is a deciduous cactus / succulent with green foliage. In fall and summer yellow flowers emerge. Features grassy texture. Grows well with sun and regular - low water. Drought tolerant once established. Prefers to be dry in summer. Does well in gritty and well-drained soil. A good option if you're seeking something verticillium wilt resistant.

CHARACTERISTICS OF Bulbine narcissifolia

Plant type: cactus / succulent
Plant family: asphodelaceae
Foliage: deciduous green
Mature size: 12 IN wide, 12 IN - 24 IN - tall
Flowers: yellow blooms in fall and summer
Uses: cutting garden, fragrant, long-blooming

GROWING CONDITIONS for Bulbine narcissifolia

USDA Zones: 8a - 11
Sun exposure: sun
Watering frequency: regular - low
Resistant to: verticillium wilt
Soil needs: gritty and well-drained

Nursery contributed plant descriptions

As the blue leaves of this species appear, it might be easy to mistake for a common Narcissus – strappy & blueish. It would be hard to mistake the flowers, though – dense, conical racemes of yellow flowers, white in bud, appear freely & over a long period from Spring into Summer. Blooming stems reach 2' or more, & the flowers are detailed with pipe cleaner-like anthers. Flowers are great cut, & have a strong perfume – actually very Narcissus-like! The plants have only a very brief dormancy in Winter, when they retreat to their tuberous roots. A sturdy perennial, but certainly not as aggressive as other Bulbines. Makes a one foot clump within the first year, & is very drought tolerant, though it will not suffer if watered regularly. From South Africa.