Snake Lily

bowiea volubilis

Also known as: ["African Potato","Climbing Onion"]

Family: Asparagaceae Genus: Bowiea Category: Flowers

Overview

A bulbous plant native to Southern Africa, known for its climbing habit and unique onion-like bulb.

Benefits & Perks

["fast growing","aesthetic foliage","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Liliopsida
Order: Asparagales
Family: Asparagaceae
Genus: Bowiea
Botanical Name: Bowiea volubilis

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Flowers
  • Suitable Location: indoor pot or outdoor in a sheltered, sunny spot
  • Suitable For:
    Collectors & Enthusiasts Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–25°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
  • Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
  • Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging and root rot.
  • Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy, or gritty soil with some organic matter. A cactus or succulent mix is ideal.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: moderate
  • Toughness Level: moderate
  • Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically after flowering or when leaves turn yellow and die back.
  • Pruning Intensity: Light pruning only, focusing on removing dead or damaged parts.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily. Can tolerate some direct morning sun but should be protected from harsh afternoon rays, especially in summer.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sunlight to prevent scorching. Indoors, place near an east or south-facing window with sheer curtains. Outdoors, provide dappled shade during peak sun hours.

Warning Signs: Yellowing or wilting leaves, soft or mushy bulb base, and root rot indicate poor drainage or overwatering.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
moderate

moderate

Sunlight

full sun to partial shade

Rotate plant weekly for even growth; Use sheer curtains to filter intense light; Avoid direct afternoon sun.

Watering

every 2–3 weeks during active growth, reduce to monthly in dormancy

1. Water deeply but infrequently to encourage deep root growth; 2. Adjust frequency based on season and growth stage; 3. Ensure excellent drainage to prevent root rot.

Soil

well-draining, sandy or gritty soil mix

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

Ensure soil dries between waterings; Use gritty amendments for drainage; Avoid heavy, water-retentive soils.

Temperature

Prefers moderate temperatures between 60–75°F (15–24°C). Can tolerate cooler temperatures down to 50°F (10°C) during dormancy but should be protected from frost.

Protect from frost; Provide shade in extreme heat; Maintain moderate temperatures during active growth.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during active growth with balanced liquid fertilizer, none in dormancy

Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; Apply during active growth; Stop fertilizing in winter.

Propagation

Methods

By bulb division or seed. Bulb division is faster and more reliable for home growers.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. 1. Carefully remove the bulb from the soil.
  2. 2. Separate small bulb offsets with a clean, sharp knife.
  3. 3. Plant offsets in well-draining soil.
  4. 4. Water sparingly until established.

Best Time: After flowering, when the plant is entering its active growth phase (late spring/early summer).

Environment

Warm, humid environment with bright indirect light. Maintain temperatures around 70°F (21°C) for optimal rooting.

Medium

Well-draining mix of cactus soil and perlite or sand.

Hormone

Not necessary for bulb division, but can be used for seed propagation to encourage germination.

Timeline

Bulb division: immediate establishment; Seed propagation: 1–2 years to flower.

Tools Needed

Clean knife, potting mix, small pots, watering can.

Quick Tips

Use sterilized tools to prevent infection; Plant offsets at the same depth as the parent bulb; Keep soil lightly moist.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Cut back dead foliage at the base using clean, sharp scissors or pruners.

Pruning Plan

Minimal pruning required. Remove dead or yellowing leaves and spent flower stalks to maintain appearance and redirect energy to bulb growth.

Tools

Clean scissors or pruners.

Checklist

Remove dead leaves; Cut back spent flower stalks; Clean tools before use.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Early spring, just before the active growth period begins.

Pot Size

One size larger pot, ensuring it is only slightly wider than the bulb.

Method

Carefully remove the bulb, trim any dead roots, place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil, and ensure the bulb is planted at the correct depth (top of bulb just below soil surface).

Suggestions

Repot only when the bulb has outgrown its container or every 2–3 years to refresh the soil. Overpotting can lead to waterlogging and rot.

Checklist

Choose appropriate pot size; Use fresh soil mix; Ensure good drainage; Plant bulb at correct depth; Water lightly after repotting.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture before watering; Water deeply; Ensure drainage; Adjust for season; Avoid wetting foliage.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water directly at the root zone, ensuring even moisture distribution. Water until it drains from the bottom, then allow excess to drain away. Water in the morning to allow foliage to dry before nightfall.

Pro Tip: Use a watering can with a long spout to deliver water directly to the soil without disturbing the bulb.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water sparingly during dormancy (winter), allowing soil to dry completely between waterings. Increase watering frequency during active growth (spring/summer), keeping soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.

Soil Improvement

Add perlite, sand, or pumice to improve drainage. Incorporate compost or well-rotted manure for organic matter.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Chlorosis (yellowing leaves), stunted growth, bud drop, or leaf burn in extreme heat or cold.

Cold Stress

Low temperatures can slow growth and induce dormancy. Prolonged exposure below 50°F (10°C) may cause root damage or bulb rot.

Solution: Move the plant to a warmer location if temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C). Ensure good drainage to prevent cold-induced rot.

Hot Stress

Excessive heat can cause leaf scorch, wilting, and reduced flowering. High humidity combined with heat may promote fungal diseases.

Solution: Provide shade during peak heat, increase humidity with misting, and ensure adequate air circulation to prevent heat stress.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Use balanced fertilizer; Dilute properly; Apply during growing season; Avoid dormant period.

Fertilizing Method

Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring/summer). Avoid fertilizing during dormancy (fall/winter).

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellow leaves in Bowiea volubilis may indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations such as mealybugs. It can also be a sign of environmental stress, such as inadequate light or temperature fluctuations.

Wilting in Bowiea volubilis is often a result of water stress, either from overwatering leading to root rot or underwatering causing dehydration. It may also be caused by pest infestations or disease affecting the plant's vascular system.

Leaf spots on Bowiea volubilis are typically caused by fungal or bacterial infections, often exacerbated by high humidity or poor air circulation. These spots can lead to leaf necrosis, reduced photosynthesis, and overall plant decline.

Rotting in Bowiea volubilis is commonly associated with overwatering or poor drainage, leading to root or bulb rot. This can cause the plant to decline rapidly, with mushy, discoloured roots or bulbs and eventual death if not addressed.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Toxic

Cats are highly susceptible to the toxic effects of Bowiea volubilis, particularly if they ingest the bulb, tubers, or leaves. The plant's toxic compounds can induce severe gastrointestinal and neurological symptoms, necessitating urgent veterinary care.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy loss of appetite tremors difficulty breathing
🌿 Toxic Parts:
bulb tubers leaves
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Ensure the plant is inaccessible to cats. If ingestion is suspected, seek veterinary assistance without delay.
Dogs
Toxic

In dogs, ingestion of Bowiea volubilis can lead to severe toxicity due to the presence of toxic compounds in the bulb, tubers, and leaves. These substances can cause significant gastrointestinal upset and potential neurological effects, requiring prompt veterinary intervention.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy loss of appetite tremors difficulty breathing
🌿 Toxic Parts:
bulb tubers leaves
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep pets away from the plant. If ingestion is suspected, contact a veterinarian immediately.
Humans
Toxic

Bowiea volubilis contains toxic compounds that can cause significant physiological distress upon ingestion. The bulb and tubers are particularly concentrated with these toxins, leading to severe gastrointestinal and neurological effects. The leaves also contain toxic substances, though in lesser concentrations.

⚠️ Symptoms:
nausea vomiting diarrhea abdominal pain dizziness difficulty breathing
🌿 Toxic Parts:
bulb tubers leaves
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep out of reach of children and avoid ingestion. If accidental consumption occurs, seek immediate medical attention.
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: How do I care for Bowiea volubilis?

A: Provide bright, indirect light, well-draining soil, and water sparingly during dormancy.

Q: Is Bowiea volubilis toxic to pets?

A: Toxicity data is unknown; it is best to keep it away from pets as a precaution.

Q: Does Bowiea volubilis flower?

A: Yes, it produces clusters of small, greenish-white flowers on tall, climbing stems.

Quick Reference
Family: Asparagaceae
Care: moderate
Light: full sun to partial shade
Water: every 2–3 weeks during activ
Suitable For: ["collectors/enthusiasts","outdoor landscapers","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
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