Society Garlic
tulbaghia violacea
Also known as: ["Pink Afrikaner","Rush Lily"]
Overview
A perennial bulbous plant native to South Africa, known for its garlic-scented leaves and lavender-pink flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","deer resistant","drought tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Asparagales |
| Family: | Amaryllidaceae |
| Genus: | Tulbaghia |
| Botanical Name: | Tulbaghia violacea |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: border plantings, rock gardens, or containers in full sun
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent bulb rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter; cactus or succulent mix works well.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed throughout the growing season; typically light pruning after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; focus on tidiness and removing dead parts.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct sunlight per day; tolerates some shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun in hot regions; adjust placement based on seasonal light changes.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even growth; provide shade during peak summer heat; ensure adequate light in winter.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering, especially in winter.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix with good aeration; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Hardy in USDA zones 7–11; prefers 50–80°F (10–27°C); tolerates mild frosts but may die back in severe cold.
Protect from frost; provide shade in summer; adjust watering for temperature changes.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize after watering to prevent root burn; stop fertilizing in late fall; use a bulb-specific fertilizer for better blooms.
Propagation
Methods
Division of bulbs or rhizomes; stem cuttings can also be used but are less common.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Divide bulbs carefully.
- Plant in new containers.
- Water lightly.
- Place in bright indirect light.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid conditions with indirect light; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; can also be propagated in water initially.
Hormone
Not necessary for bulb division; rooting hormone can help with stem cuttings.
Timeline
Bulbs establish quickly within weeks; stem cuttings may take 4–6 weeks to root.
Tools Needed
Sharp knife, gloves, pots, well-draining soil.
Quick Tips
Divide bulbs every 3–4 years to maintain vigor; ensure each division has roots and foliage.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip flower stalks at the base; trim foliage with clean cuts just above the bulb or rhizome.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning needed; remove spent flower stalks to encourage reblooming; trim dead or damaged foliage as needed.
Tools
Pruning shears, gloves.
Checklist
Check for dead or damaged foliage; remove spent flowers; clean tools before and after use.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, just before new growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot; ensure it has drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; loosen roots; place in a new pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when bulbs become crowded; best when the plant outgrows its container.
Checklist
Check root health; use fresh soil; ensure proper drainage; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is not compacted.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves in cold stress; wilting or leaf drop in heat stress; stunted growth in extreme temperatures.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may cause leaf discoloration; bulbs can survive mild frosts but foliage may die back.
Solution: Mulch heavily around bulbs in winter; protect from frost with a cover; move potted plants indoors if temperatures drop below 20°F (-7°C).
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch or wilt; reduced flowering; bulbs may go dormant in extreme heat.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering during heatwaves; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type; dilute correctly; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength; fertilize every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring to fall); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal and neurological symptoms upon ingestion of Tulbaghia violacea. The bulbs and leaves contain the highest levels of toxic compounds.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Tulbaghia violacea can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset and, in rare cases, mild neurological symptoms. The bulbs and leaves are the primary toxic components.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicTulbaghia violacea contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and neurological effects when ingested in significant quantities. The plant's bulbs and leaves are the most toxic parts due to higher concentrations of these compounds.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Society Garlic really garlic?
A: No, it is not true garlic but shares a similar garlic scent, especially when the leaves are crushed.
Q: How often should I water Society Garlic?
A: Water sparingly, as it is drought-tolerant and prefers well-drained soil.
Q: Does Society Garlic attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds due to its fragrant flowers and nectar.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Amaryllidaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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