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Tiny Tangerine Bulbine
Bulbine frutescens
In stock
1 gallon
Plant Care
Native region:
Desert Adapted
Water needs:
Low
Exposure:
Mature size:
Growth rate:
Full Sun; Part Shade
1’x1.5’
Fast
Flower color:
Flower season:
Pruning:
Orange
Fall - Spring
None
Wildlife
Monarchs:
No
Nectar pollinators:
Yes
Nighttime pollinators:
No
Rabbit resistant:
Yes
This dwarf form of the orange Bulbine is great for small spaces and containers. Native to South Africa, this clumping succulent spreads by rhizomes (underground stems) to create low mounds to one foot tall by 1.5 feet wide. The cylindrical succulent, dark green leaves are about 4–6 inches long, resembling those of green onions. From fall through spring the plants are topped by 12-inch-long spikes of orange flowers. For the low desert, some shade is recommended to avoid leaf tip burn. It grows well in containers, as an understory plant beneath desert trees, or in tight plantings places along sidewalks and entries. Plant in full sun to part shade, and in well-drained soils.
Growing Plants in the Desert — Important Information
The information presented here is, to the best of my knowledge, accurate and based on my research from reliable sources, observations I have made of plants growing in my, and other gardens I have visited, and observations of the plants in their native habitats. I would appreciate your feedback and experience to help me educate others!
Cacti: In my experience, cacti are much happier in the filtered shade here in the low desert of the Coachella Valley. Colors are more vibrant and they bloom more profusely, especially the non-native varieties. If you pay attention to how our native barrel and beavertail opuntia grow in the wild, it is frequently tucked in the rocks under creosote or another shrub.
Light Requirements: I have found that in our desert (Sonoran/Colorado) “full sun” plants can take and appreciate the late afternoon filtered sun, especially in the hot summer months.