Bulbine is one of those wonderfully characterful plant genera that rewards both the casual gardener and the serious collector. Belonging to the family Asphodelaceae, the same broad family alliance that includes many familiar succulent and aloe-like plants, Bulbine combines resilience, delicacy and surprising diversity in a way that makes it especially appealing to growers of indigenous, drought-tolerant and unusual plants.

Although many people first meet Bulbine through the popular garden species with bright yellow or orange flowers, the genus is far richer than a single water-wise groundcover. Across southern Africa, and in parts of tropical Africa and Australia, Bulbine species appear as tufted perennials, rhizomatous plants, soft succulents and fascinating geophytes with underground storage organs. Some are bold and grassy, some are compact and rock-hugging, and others develop highly succulent leaves that allow them to survive long dry periods in exposed, stony habitats.

The flowers are a major part of their charm. Most Bulbine species produce slender racemes of starry yellow flowers, sometimes orange, white or pink, often with beautifully fluffy, bearded stamens that give the blooms a lively, glowing centre. These flowers are usually attractive to bees and other small pollinating insects, adding ecological value as well as ornamental appeal.

For South African growers, Bulbine offers a direct link to some of the country’s most distinctive landscapes, from grassy slopes and rocky outcrops to dry winter-rainfall regions and succulent-rich karoo habitats. For international collectors, the genus provides a captivating window into southern African plant diversity: tough, elegant, often compact, and perfectly suited to pots, rock gardens, xeriscapes and specialist succulent collections when given sharp drainage and the correct seasonal rhythm.

Whether grown for its bright flowers, unusual succulent foliage, water-wise nature or collector value, Bulbine is a genus with real personality. It is approachable enough for beginners in its easier species, yet varied and intriguing enough to keep experienced growers fascinated for years.

Bulbine frutescens is a popular, water wise garden plant, especially when planted en masse as a groundcover, or in rock gardens. It is also cultivated for its medicinal properties. The fresh leaf produces a jelly-like juice that is wonderful for burns, rashes, blisters, insect bites, cracked lips, acne, cold sores, mouth ulcers and areas of cracked skin. This plant is ideal to grow and is a useful first-aid remedy for childrens’ daily knocks and scrapes. The Rastafarians make an infusion of a few fresh leaves in a cup of boiling water. The strained drink is taken for coughs, colds and arthritis. During spring into summer it produces upright spreading racemes in yellow, orange or rarely white. On offer here are seeds for the Yellow form of Bulbine frutescens. We also sell the Orange and White forms. Sow the seeds of Bulbine frutescens during spring or summer.