Family: Liliaceae

Originating from Asia, these six species of bulbous perennials are similar to true lilies, though they differ in the formation of the bulbs.

Species

N. bulbiferum has beautiful, pinkish lavender, funnel-shaped flowers, tipped in green. It grows up to 1 m (3 ft) high.

N. campanulatum, to 1 m (3 ft) high, has pendulous, crimson flowers, tipped in green.

N. thomsonianum bears a tall spike of fragrant, pinkish mauve flowers from a rosette of basal leaves. This species is easily cultivated but does not always flower well.

Cultivation

Plant bulbs 15 cm (6 in) deep in the autumn for summer flowering in moist, well-drained soil, preferably in semi-shade. Propagate from the small bulbils which form at the base of the flower stems when the main bulb has died off after flowering, or by lifting and dividing the bulbs in early autumn.

Climate

Zone 8.