CHASMANTHE
aethiopica. S. Africa. I have mixed feelings about offering this robust
bulb, as it has been invasive in some coastal settings. However, it is undeniably
beautiful, and unique in the form of the flowers. It grows from corms which
multiply to form attractive thickets. Fans of broad, thin-textured leaves arise
in early winter, growing about 1½ tall. For several weeks in spring
3 flower stems carry a succession of irregular tubular, orange-scarlet
blossoms suggestive of some of the penstemons and honeysuckles. There is also
a yellow flowered selection. It is summer dormant and perfectly drought tolerant.
Sun or light shade, most soils. The winter growing tops are hardy to around
20oF.