Family: Alliaceae

Native to tropical and South Africa, this genus includes over 20 species of mainly herbaceous perennials, growing from bulbs or rhizomes. They form clumps of grassy foliage, smelling of garlic or onions, and heads of mainly purple or white flowers from late spring to autumn.

Species

T. capensis, from South Africa, grows to 60 cm (24 in), with green-purple flowers.

T. simmleri (Synonym: T. fragrans), sweet garlic or pink agapanthus, grows to 40 cm (16 in). It has large flower heads in purple shades. 'there is also a white form.

T. violacea, from South Africa, grows to 60 cm (24 in), with lilac flow­ers. It is known as society garlic, having a strong onion smell.

Cultivation

In frost-prone areas, grow in a cool greenhouse or conservatory, in pots of soil-based potting compost. Provide maximum light. Keep the compost virtually dry when the plants are dormant. Water normally at other times. Outdoors, grow in a sunny spot with well-drained soil. Propagate from ripe seed sown in a garden frame, or alternatively, by dividing the clumps in spring.

Climate

Zone 9.