False Garlic

nothoscordum gracile

Also known as: ["White Garlic","Stem Garlic"]

Family: Amaryllidaceae Genus: Nothoscordum Category: Flowers

Overview

A bulbous perennial herb native to South America, characterized by grass-like leaves and small, white, star-shaped flowers.

Benefits & Perks

["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","low maintenance","aesthetic foliage"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Liliopsida
Order: Asparagales
Family: Amaryllidaceae
Genus: Nothoscordum
Botanical Name: Nothoscordum gracile

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Flowers
  • Suitable Location: raised garden bed or container in a sunny spot
  • Suitable For:
    Beginners Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"8–11"}
  • Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
  • Drainage: Fast-draining
  • Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with added organic matter.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: low
  • Toughness Level: moderate
  • Pruning Frequency: As needed after flowering; occasional tidying of yellowed leaves.
  • Pruning Intensity: Light
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily. Can tolerate partial sun but avoid harsh afternoon rays.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun; protect from intense midday sun; adjust placement based on season.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves, rotting bulbs, or mold indicate poor drainage or overwatering.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
easy

moderate

Sunlight

full sun to partial shade

Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter strong light; move outdoors in spring/summer.

Watering

every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter

Water deeply but infrequently; avoid waterlogged soil; ensure good drainage.

Soil

well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).

Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with grit if needed.

Temperature

Prefers moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C). Tolerates mild fluctuations but dislikes extreme heat or cold.

Avoid drafts; maintain stable temps; protect from sudden changes.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter

Dilute fertilizer to half strength; apply to moist soil; stop in dormant periods.

Propagation

Methods

By seed or division of bulbs. Seeds may take longer to mature.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Collect seeds or divide bulbs.
  2. Plant in medium.
  3. Keep moist.
  4. Provide warmth and light.

Best Time: Spring, when bulbs are actively growing.

Environment

Warm, humid conditions with indirect light for seeds; similar for bulb division.

Medium

Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand for seeds; moist sphagnum for bulb division.

Hormone

Not typically required for bulb division; optional for seeds.

Timeline

Seeds: 1–2 years to flower; bulb division: roots in 4–6 weeks, flowering in 1–2 years.

Tools Needed

Pruners, small pots, labels, watering can.

Quick Tips

Use fresh seeds for best germination; divide bulbs when crowded; keep seedlings warm.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Snip flower stalks at the base; remove dead or damaged leaves.

Pruning Plan

Minimal pruning needed. Remove spent flower stalks to encourage bulb development.

Tools

Clean scissors or pruners.

Checklist

Remove spent flowers; cut cleanly; sanitize tools.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Late winter or early spring, before active growth begins.

Pot Size

One size larger pot; ensure good drainage holes.

Method

Gently lift bulbs; remove old soil; trim any damaged roots; plant in fresh, well-draining mix.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when bulbs become crowded. Best when dormant or just before growth starts.

Checklist

Check bulb health; use fresh soil; ensure proper depth; water lightly after repotting.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; reduce in winter.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone without wetting foliage. Allow excess water to drain away completely.

Pro Tip: Water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and fungal issues.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water sparingly, allowing soil to dry completely between waterings. Reduce frequency in winter to prevent rot.

Soil Improvement

Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in extreme temperatures; may go dormant in cold.

Cold Stress

Slows growth, may cause leaf drop or dormancy; roots can rot in cold, wet soil.

Solution: Move to a warmer location; ensure soil is dry; provide frost protection if outdoors.

Hot Stress

Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may slow; bulbs can overheat in hot, dry conditions.

Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water carefully to avoid heat shock.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Use balanced fertilizer; dilute properly; fertilize during growing season only.

Fertilizing Method

Use a balanced, diluted liquid fertilizer every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring/summer). Avoid feeding in winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing leaves in Nothoscordum gracile may indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations, affecting photosynthesis and overall plant health.

Wilting in Nothoscordum gracile can result from water stress, either due to drought or overwatering, disrupting nutrient uptake and potentially leading to plant death.

Leaf spots on Nothoscordum gracile may be caused by fungal or bacterial pathogens, leading to reduced photosynthetic efficiency and potential defoliation.

Rotting, particularly root or bulb rot, can occur in Nothoscordum gracile due to excessive moisture or fungal infections, leading to decay and loss of the plant.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Slightly Toxic

Cats may experience mild gastrointestinal irritation if they consume the bulbs or roots of Nothoscordum gracile. The toxic compounds are not highly potent but can cause discomfort.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea depression
🌿 Toxic Parts:
bulbs roots
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Prevent cats from accessing bulbs and roots. Seek veterinary advice if ingestion occurs.
Dogs
Slightly Toxic

In dogs, ingestion of Nothoscordum gracile bulbs and roots can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The plant contains irritants that may cause discomfort but are not typically life-threatening.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy
🌿 Toxic Parts:
bulbs roots
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep bulbs and roots out of reach of dogs. Contact a veterinarian if ingestion is suspected.
Humans
Slightly Toxic

Nothoscordum gracile contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress when ingested. The bulbs and roots are the primary toxic parts, containing irritants that affect the digestive system.

⚠️ Symptoms:
nausea vomiting abdominal pain diarrhea
🌿 Toxic Parts:
bulbs roots
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Avoid ingestion of bulbs and roots. Keep away from children and pets.
Important: Keep this plant out of reach of children and pets. If ingestion occurs, contact poison control or veterinary services immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Nothoscordum gracile toxic to pets?

A: There is insufficient data on its toxicity to pets.

Q: How often should I water Nothoscordum gracile?

A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.

Q: Does Nothoscordum gracile attract wildlife?

A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.

Quick Reference
Family: Amaryllidaceae
Care: easy
Light: full sun to partial shade
Water: every 7–10 days during activ
Suitable For: ["beginners","outdoor landscapers","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Get Expert Care Tips

Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!

Google Play App Store
Share This Plant

Related Plants

Sharpflower Onion
View
Martinez's Lapiedra
View
Aztec Lily
View
Aztec lily
View