Stalkless Bulbine, Orange Stalkless Bulbine
bulbine frutescens
Also known as: ["Stalkless Bulbine","Orange Stalkless Bulbine"]
Overview
A succulent perennial native to South Africa, known for its fleshy leaves and bright yellow or orange flowers that bloom on short stalks.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Asparagales |
| Family: | Asphodelaceae |
| Genus: | Bulbine |
| Botanical Name: | Bulbine frutescens |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Succulents & Cacti
- Suitable Location: rock garden, border, or container in a sunny spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter; cactus or succulent mix is ideal.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed throughout the growing season; lightly prune after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless rejuvenating an older plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to bright indirect light; 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily preferred, especially in cooler months; partial shade in intense summer heat.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh midday sun in summer; indoors, place near a south-facing window with filtered light.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to diffuse intense sun; avoid sudden light changes.
Watering
every 7–10 days in summer, every 3–4 weeks in winter
Allow soil to dry completely between waterings; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot; water less in winter dormancy.
Soil
well-draining, sandy or loamy soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use gritty mix for outdoor planting; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with compost for potted plants.
Temperature
Prefers 60–85°F (15–29°C); tolerates mild frost but thrives in warm conditions; reduces growth in temperatures below 50°F (10°C).
Protect from frost; avoid placing near drafty windows; adjust watering with temperature changes.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 months during active growth
Fertilize only during active growth; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use a low-nitrogen formula.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of offsets; stem cuttings root easily in warm conditions.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 3–4 inch cutting.
- Let it callus for a day.
- Plant in moist medium.
- Keep lightly moist until rooted.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–80°F), humid, and bright indirect light; protect from direct sun.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and potting soil or cactus mix.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Sharp knife or scissors, rooting hormone (optional), small pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; avoid overwatering new cuttings; maintain consistent warmth.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip flower stalks at the base; trim stems just above a leaf node.
Pruning Plan
Remove spent flower stalks to encourage reblooming; trim leggy growth to maintain shape.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune dead or damaged growth; remove spent flowers; shape as desired.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; repot in fresh, well-draining soil with a slightly larger pot.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for younger plants to encourage growth.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot with drainage; use fresh soil mix; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil dryness; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water thoroughly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; ensure excess water drains away; water early in the day to minimize evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once every 1–2 weeks during active growth (spring/summer); reduce frequency to once a month or less in winter. Adjust based on rainfall and soil dryness.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves or leaf drop in cold; wilting or stunted growth in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may cause leaf discoloration; prolonged cold can lead to root damage or death.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; provide frost protection in winter; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Leaf scorch, wilting, or drooping; reduced flowering; may go dormant in extreme heat.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering frequency; improve air circulation around the plant.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth season; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; rinse tools after use.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength; apply every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer; avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicBulbine frutescens is not considered toxic to cats. There are no documented cases of toxicity in felines from exposure to this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicBulbine frutescens is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of toxicity in canines from exposure to this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicBulbine frutescens is not considered toxic to humans under normal circumstances. It is commonly used in landscaping and horticulture without reported adverse effects.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Bulbine frutescens?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. It is drought-tolerant and overwatering can lead to root rot.
Q: Does Bulbine frutescens attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds due to its nectar-rich flowers.
Q: Is Bulbine frutescens toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asphodelaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days in summer, e |
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