Grape Hyacinth
romulea rosea
Also known as: ["Pink Lady","Pink Buttercup"]
Overview
A small, bulbous perennial with slender, grass-like leaves and delicate pink or rose-colored flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Asparagales |
| Family: | Iridaceae |
| Genus: | Romulea |
| Botanical Name: | Romulea rosea |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: rock garden, raised bed, or container with excellent drainage
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–25°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- 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: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically after flowering or when leaves yellow and die back.
- Pruning Intensity: Light; only remove dead or unsightly foliage.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 4–6 hours daily; tolerate some direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct light; protect from intense midday sun; adjust placement seasonally to avoid overheating or insufficient light.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; move outdoors in spring/autumn for optimal light.
Watering
every 2–3 weeks during active growth, reduce to monthly in dormancy
Water deeply but infrequently; avoid waterlogged soil; adjust frequency based on season and dormancy.
Soil
well-draining, sandy or loamy soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix designed for succulents; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots drain freely.
Temperature
Prefers moderate temperatures (15–24°C); tolerates cooler conditions (10°C) but avoids frost; thrives in mild climates.
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; maintain consistent moderate temperatures.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth, none in dormancy
Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize only when actively growing; stop in summer/winter dormancy.
Propagation
Methods
Seed or division of corms; seeds are slower but more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- For seeds: sow shallowly, keep moist, and provide warmth.
- For corms: divide carefully, plant 2–3 cm deep, and water lightly.
Best Time: Spring, when the plant is emerging from dormancy and actively growing.
Environment
Warm (18–24°C), bright indirect light, high humidity (for seeds), and good air circulation.
Medium
Well-draining seed starting mix or cactus mix; for corm division, use fresh, sterile potting mix.
Hormone
Not necessary for seeds; rooting hormone may aid corm division but is optional.
Timeline
Seeds: 1–3 months to germinate; corms: roots form in 2–4 weeks, new growth in 1–2 months.
Tools Needed
Sharp, sterile knife or scissors, small pots, seed trays, rooting hormone (optional), misting bottle.
Quick Tips
Use fresh seeds for better germination; divide corms only when necessary to avoid stress; maintain consistent moisture for seeds.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip leaves at the base with clean, sharp scissors; avoid cutting into healthy tissue.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning needed; remove dead or damaged leaves as needed to maintain appearance and health.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or small pruning shears.
Checklist
Use clean tools; prune only dead/damaged leaves; avoid over-pruning; dispose of clippings properly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Late winter or early spring, before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Gently remove the plant; trim any shriveled or damaged corms; replant in fresh, well-draining soil at the same depth.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the corm is crowded; best when the plant is dormant or just starting growth.
Checklist
Use fresh soil; check for crowded corms; ensure proper drainage; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water early in the day; ensure proper drainage; adjust for dormancy.
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; water in the morning to minimize evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water sparingly during active growth (spring/autumn), allowing soil to dry between waterings; reduce or cease watering in summer dormancy and winter.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate compost for organic matter; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing or browning leaves (cold stress); wilting or stunted growth (heat stress); premature dormancy.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may cause leaf discoloration; prolonged exposure can damage or kill the plant.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots; avoid cold drafts; reduce watering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, scorch, or drop; growth may slow; flowering may be impaired.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but ensure drainage; avoid fertilizing during heat stress.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during active growth; avoid dormant periods; rinse soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength; apply monthly during active growth (spring/autumn); avoid fertilizing during dormancy.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicRomulea rosea is mildly toxic to cats if ingested, particularly the bulb and roots. The plant can cause mild gastrointestinal irritation, leading to discomfort but not usually severe illness.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIngestion of the bulb or roots of Romulea rosea can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset in dogs. The plant contains irritants that may cause discomfort but are not typically life-threatening.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicRomulea rosea contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress when ingested. The bulb and roots are the primary toxic parts, containing irritants that affect the digestive system.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Romulea rosea toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: How often should I water Romulea rosea?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry between waterings, especially during dormancy.
Q: Does Romulea rosea attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds with its flowers.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Iridaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 2–3 weeks during activ |
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