|
Rare and Unusual Bulbs:
|
Tecophilaea leichtlinii
| Tecophilaea Species
Yes, its that special time of the season again, and no doubt one of the highlights of bulbomania, when it comes to the growing of those beautiful Tecophilaea species. No need to say, that I get all excited and flustered when the first flower opens up, and have been known to go all incoherent and delirious with uncontrollable excitement.
This season promises to be a good one, with plants in good shape and plenty of buds developing.
For the benefit of other Tecophiles I will describe a few cultural notes, on this most interesting and fascinating subject.
TECOPHILAEA cyanocrocus - Chilean Blue Crocus
Another cold climate hardy bulb for the keen grower and collector Without doubt the most sought after of all the smaller flowering bulbs: the fabulous Chilean Blue Crocus.
This species is now believed to be critically endangered in the wild, mainly because of over-collecting and intensive grazing by cattle and sheep to the point of becoming extinct.
Fortunately they are not difficult to grow,and although rare in cultivation,and given the right environment, will not be lost from the planet. Its supreme beauty and rarity, makes it a must in every connoisseur's collection.
They are usually grown in a alpine house or cold glasshouse. Because they are so unique and beautiful, these plants justify special attention and treatment.
It starts growth early in the season, but appears to be hardy in all except very exposed areas. and needs very good drainage.
Young growth can be scorched with severe frost, but will soon harden.
Plant in well drained fertile potting mix in full sun 5cm. deep (2inch.) Bulbs should remain cool until growth appears from mid to late Winter. Water only when in growth, but be careful not to over-water in warm conditions.
When flowering is finished, gradually reduce water to allow bulbs to go dormant and thoroughly ripened by the Summer sun.
In view of its small size and rarity T.cyanocrocus sp. are best cultivated in a container or some other "protected" situation where it can thrive and receive the special attention it deserves. As a Alpine and cool greenhouse-plant it can more easily be grown and maintained, and a pot of it is always treasured by keen growers and collectors.
Bulbs multiply slowly, the best method of increase is to propagate from fresh seed, sown in autumn in a gritty seed mix. Seed will develop more readily when hand pollinated, which requires a delicate touch if it's going to be successful. Seedlings will reach flowering size, when grown on for another 3-4 years.
Pests are not usually a problem, but botrytis can damage the flowers in cool and damp conditions. To prevent this, give the plants plenty of light and fresh air. Watch out for snails as well, they often eat the flowers.
TECOPHILAEA cyanocrocus: one, often two flowers are produced per stem, of intense vivid gentian blue with a white throat. Flowers 2 inches across when fully open.
|
 |
TECOPHILAEA cyan.var.leichtlinii: the same beautiful plant with 2 inch sky-blue flowers and large white centres (see photo at top of page).
 |
TECOPHILAEA cyan.var.violacea: another member of this attractive but rare species, the bright violet blue colour of this form has great charm.
|
Tecophilaea's are always much admired when flowering en masse, a sight never to be forgotten.
TAURANGA : mid Winter, where the weather is sunny, still mild for this time of the season, no frost as yet and where the Tecophilaea's starting to flower.
This article was kindly supplied by
Bill Dijk, Tauranga, New Zealand. Zone 8-9
Summer average temp: High, 23 C. Low 16 C.
Winter average temp: High, 15 C. Low 8 C.
Rainfall: Summer average/month 102mm (4 in.)
Rainfall: Winter average/month 128mm (5 in.)
| 
