Veltheimia bulbs and plants

Veltheimia capensis and Veltheimia bracteata (syn. Veltheimia viridifolia) bulbs and plants are a genus of two species Veltheimia bracteata being the most widely grown. Veltheimia are sometimes referred to as the 'Forest lily' this gives us an insight into growing conditions.

Velthemia are shade lovers and much prefer indirect light. Frost can be a problem, especially heavy frosts which will damage the foliage fairly quickly. We have found that Velthemia like toe left alone, once established they are happy to multiply and flower with little trouble, they seem to 'sulk a little' after being moved.

Veltheimia care and growing conditions

Velthemia can be grown easily in pots and containers and work well as an indoor plant, they hold their flowers over a long period. Flowers will begin to appear in early winter and open up mid to late winter. A liquid seaweed Veltheimia are a deciduous bulb that prefers a shaded dry position. Glossy green foliage and flowers pink or white during winter. Veltheimia capensis and Veltheimia bracteata die back during summer. Yellow flowering Velthemia are also available. (rare)

Veltheimia should be planted at ground level, the base and roots in the ground but with the majority of the bulb above the ground. We grow Veltheimia in pots in a shade position where they do well, as well as in the ground at the base of Southern Beech Tree.

Larger clumps can be divided in summer as the bulbs go through their short dormancy. Plants can also be propagated from seed or by leaf cuttings placed in a sharp sand.