Romulea Atranda

Description

Sizeable, yellow-throated, bright pink flowers open early in the year, usually January, very close to the ground, surrounded by narrow foliage. The insides of the flowers are marked with decorative, fine filigree markings of deeper red-purple, almost verging on black, and this is also present as streaks and lines on the outside of the flower at the base, and is even visible when the flowers are closed. Coming from western South Africa, it thrives outside in a well-drained sunny spot, or under alpine glass in a well-drained, loam-based compost.

Sowing Advice

Sow seeds at any time covering them very thinly with compost or grit, and leaving some of the seed showing, as light can initiate germination, just as in the wild, and leave in a well-lit, warm spot. Sometimes, artificial heat may not be needed, and may prevent germination, as some species will only germinate in the spring after being chilled in the moist seed tray. Grow on in sharply draining compost in a pot, or the open ground.

Key Facts