PermiePortal

Bulbine

Bulbine

Bulbine frutescens

Basic Information

🌿 Family: Asphodelaceae

πŸ—ΊοΈ Zone: 9-11

Other Names:

  • Snake Flower
  • Cat's Tail
  • Burn Jelly Plant

🌑️ Ideal Temperature : 60Β°F – 85Β°F

πŸ”₯ Heat Tolerance: Up to 100Β°F

❄️ Cold Tolerance: Down to 20Β°F

🌱 Type: Perennial

Layers

  • Ground

Functions

  • Edible
  • Medicinal
  • Ground Cover
  • Wildlife Attractor

Pests

Companions

Plants to Avoid

  • None

Description

Bulbine frutescens is a succulent perennial native to South Africa, forming dense clumps of fleshy, grass-like leaves. It produces tall flower stalks adorned with star-shaped yellow or orange flowers, blooming primarily in spring and late summer. The plant's resilience and low-maintenance nature make it a popular choice for xeriscaping and ornamental gardens.

πŸŒžπŸ’§ **Sun and Water Requirements:**
Prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade. Drought-tolerant once established; requires well-drained soil to prevent root rot.

βœ‚οΈπŸ«˜ **Methods to Propagate:**
Propagation is typically done through division of clumps or by planting seeds. Divisions can be made during the active growing season.

πŸ§‘β€πŸŒΎπŸ‘©β€πŸŒΎ **When to Harvest:**
Leaves can be harvested year-round for medicinal uses. Flowers can be picked during their blooming periods for ornamental purposes.

Purpose

- **Edible:** While not commonly consumed, some cultures use the leaves in traditional dishes.
- **Medicinal:** The gel from the leaves is applied topically to treat burns, rashes, and insect bites due to its soothing properties.
- **Ground Cover:** Its clumping growth habit and drought tolerance make it ideal for ground cover in xeriscaping.
- **Wildlife Attractor:** The flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators, enhancing garden biodiversity.