False Garlic

nothoscordum borbonicum

Also known as: ["Borbón Garlic","False Garlic"]

Family: Amaryllidaceae Genus: Nothoscordum Category: Flowers

Overview

A bulbous perennial plant with grass-like leaves and small, white, star-shaped flowers.

Benefits & Perks

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

Botanical Classification

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

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Flowers
  • Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in a sunny spot, or container with good drainage
  • Suitable For:
    Beginners Busy People (low Maintenance) 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 to prevent bulb rot.
  • Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: low
  • Toughness Level: moderate
  • Pruning Frequency: As needed after flowering; no strict schedule.
  • Pruning Intensity: Light pruning only.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate some direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun; protect from intense midday sun; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves, soft bulbs, or moldy soil indicate poor drainage or overwatering.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
easy

moderate

Sunlight

full sun to partial shade

Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid direct afternoon sun.

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).

Ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with organic matter for nutrients.

Temperature

Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates mild fluctuations but avoid extreme heat or cold.

Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from drafts; maintain moderate temperatures.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during growing season

Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize during active growth; stop in dormant periods.

Propagation

Methods

By division of bulbs or seeds.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Separate bulbs carefully.
  2. Plant at appropriate depth.
  3. Water lightly.
  4. Provide warmth and indirect light.

Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.

Environment

Warm, humid environment with indirect light.

Medium

Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand.

Hormone

Not necessary for bulb division; optional for seeds.

Timeline

Bulbs may produce new growth in a few weeks; seeds take several months to germinate.

Tools Needed

Clean knife or scissors, small pots, well-draining soil.

Quick Tips

Ensure bulbs are firm and healthy; plant at the correct depth; maintain consistent moisture.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Snip flower stalks at the base; avoid cutting leaves unless damaged.

Pruning Plan

Minimal pruning needed; remove spent flower stalks to encourage further blooming.

Tools

Clean, sharp scissors or pruners.

Checklist

Check for spent flowers; use clean tools; avoid over-pruning.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Spring, after flowering.

Pot Size

One size larger pot; ensure it has drainage holes.

Method

Gently remove plant; loosen roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil; ensure good drainage.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when bulbs become crowded.

Checklist

Check root health; use fresh soil; ensure proper drainage; water lightly after repotting.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture; water thoroughly; ensure drainage; adjust for season.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water at the base of the plant, ensuring even moisture distribution without saturating the soil; allow excess water to drain away.

Pro Tip: Use room temperature water to avoid shocking the plant.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water when the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.

Soil Improvement

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

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in extreme temperatures.

Cold Stress

Slows growth, may cause leaf drop or dormancy in prolonged cold.

Solution: Move to a warmer location; protect from drafts; reduce watering in cold periods.

Hot Stress

Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop in excessive heat.

Solution: Provide shade, increase humidity, and water more frequently in hot conditions.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check season; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with foliage.

Fertilizing Method

Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

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

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

Leaf spots on Nothoscordum borbonicum are often caused by fungal or bacterial pathogens, which can impair photosynthesis and weaken the plant if severe.

Rotting, particularly root or bulb rot, can occur in Nothoscordum borbonicum due to excessive moisture or fungal infections, leading to decay and plant decline.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Slightly Toxic

Cats may experience mild gastrointestinal irritation if they ingest the bulbs or roots of Nothoscordum borbonicum. 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 the plant; seek veterinary advice if ingestion is suspected.
Dogs
Slightly Toxic

In dogs, ingestion of Nothoscordum borbonicum 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 pets away from the plant, especially the bulbs and roots; consult a veterinarian if ingestion occurs.
Humans
Slightly Toxic

Nothoscordum borbonicum contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress upon ingestion. The bulbs and roots are the primary toxic parts, containing irritant substances 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 out of reach of children.
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 borbonicum edible?

A: No, it is not recommended for consumption due to potential toxicity.

Q: How often should I water Nothoscordum borbonicum?

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

Q: Does Nothoscordum borbonicum attract wildlife?

A: Yes, it attracts bees and butterflies with its flowers.

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