August 1996
Bulbous plant with erect, strap shaped, shiny, medium green leaves which appear slightly folded along midrib. Spikes consist of many small, fragrant, waxy, trumpet-shaped florets arranged tightly on leafless stalk.
Blue, White, Yellow, Pink, Red
May discard or place plant in a cool (45 - 50 degrees F) bright location and plant outside when ground thaws in spring. May flower next spring.
December to February
Small planter.
Low to medium to high. Tolerates most light levels well.
Normal. Water thoroughly, let soil dry to touch to a soil depth of 1/2".
Cool - medium. 50 - 70 (degrees F) days, 45 - 65 nights.
High
Not necessary while in flower
Well drained soil mix.
Bulbs
Select sturdy, shapely plant with healthy foliage and bright, clear colored flowers. Check for insects. Avoid plants with disease or insect damage. Buy bulbs that are large and firm.
Very challenging. Attractive while in bloom. Difficult to cultivate year round and rebloom. Usually discarded after blooms fade.
`Pink Pearl' - pink; `Edelveiss' - white; `City of Harlem' - Yellow, and many more cultivars.
Bulb toxicity reported: Proper plant
I.D. important. House plants are not to
be eaten by people or pets.
Bulb rot: Don't let plant sit in water.
Also used as a cut flower. Can buy bulbs to force. With different varieties, can have color much longer if you choose varieties with early, midseason and late blooms. Tolerates all but very low light.