Family: Liliaceae

From the Himalayas, Tibet, Burma and western China, this genus consists of seven species of bulbous perennials related to fritillaries and lilies. The attractive, summer flowers may be saucer-shaped or bell-like and come in a variety of shades, spotted with contrasting colours. The petals are often fringed and the stamens decorative and prominent.

Species

N. aptera, from China, grows between 45 cm and 1 m (18-40 in) high. It has pink flowers with a maroon eye and crimson spots.

N. farreri, from Burma, grows to 1 m (3 ft), with pink flowers spotted maroon and crimson.

N. pardathrina, from western China, has white or pink flowers spotted purple and red. It grows to 1 m (3 ft).

N. saluenensis grows between 45 cm and 1 m (18-40 in). The white flowers are tinged with rose and spotted in purple on the outside.

Cultivation

Plant bulbs in a woodland garden or shrub border in autumn or spring, 15 cm (6 in) deep. They need acid, moisture-retentive, yet well-drained soil containing plenty of humus, and partial shade. Full sun is suitable in really cool climates. Propagate from seed sown in autumn or spring. Germinate seed at 10°C (50°F). Nomocharis can also be propagated from bulb scales in late summer.

Climate

Zone 7.