Bulbine

Bulbine (Bulbine frutescens)

Bulbine (Bulbine frutescens) is a hardy, low-maintenance succulent plant known for its bright, star-shaped flowers that bloom in shades of yellow and orange. Native to South Africa, this drought-tolerant plant is perfect for water-wise gardens, rock gardens, and containers. Its thick, fleshy leaves and vibrant flowers make it an excellent choice for sunny landscapes that require minimal care.

Distinctive Features

Bulbine features long, slender leaves that form dense rosettes, providing a lovely green backdrop to the plant's bright yellow or orange flowers. The flowers grow on tall spikes above the foliage and are known for attracting bees and butterflies. Bulbine's drought tolerance and ability to thrive in full sun make it a great addition to xeriscape gardens, where water conservation is key.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Prefers full sun to partial shade. It thrives in bright, sunny locations, making it perfect for water-wise and desert-style gardens.


• Soil: Grows best in well-draining, sandy or loamy soil. It can tolerate poor soil conditions as long as they are well-drained.


• Water: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. It is highly drought-tolerant once established, making it ideal for xeriscaping.


• Humidity: Prefers dry to moderate humidity, making it well-suited for arid or low-humidity climates.


• USDA Hardiness Zones: 9-11 (typically grown as a perennial in warm climates, but may be treated as an annual in cooler zones).

Ideal Uses

• Water-Wise Gardens: An excellent choice for drought-tolerant gardens, where it thrives with minimal water.


• Rock Gardens: Perfect for rock gardens, where its compact size and succulent foliage provide both texture and color.


• Containers: Ideal for containers, where it can add a splash of color and thrive in sunny locations with minimal care.


• Sunny Garden Beds: Great for garden beds that receive full sun, where it can spread and add vibrant flowers to the landscape.

Low Maintenance Care

Bulbine is a low-maintenance plant that thrives with minimal care. It is perfect for gardeners looking for a hardy, drought-tolerant plant that can handle hot, sunny conditions without requiring frequent attention.

• Watering: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry between waterings. Overwatering can cause root rot, so it is important to ensure the soil drains well.


• Pruning: Prune spent flowers and remove any dead or damaged leaves to maintain the plant's tidy appearance and encourage new blooms.


• Fertilizing: Bulbine generally does not require much fertilizing, but a light application of a balanced fertilizer in the spring can promote healthy growth and blooms.


• Winter Care: In cooler climates, Bulbine can be overwintered indoors in containers or treated as an annual.

Why Choose Bulbine?

Bulbine is an excellent choice for gardeners looking for a vibrant, low-maintenance plant that thrives in full sun and dry conditions. Its drought tolerance, attractive flowers, and ease of care make it perfect for water-wise gardens, containers, and rock gardens.

• Drought-Tolerant: Once established, Bulbine requires little water, making it ideal for water-efficient landscapes.


• Vibrant Flowers: The bright yellow or orange star-shaped flowers add a pop of color to any garden.


• Low Maintenance: Bulbine requires minimal care, making it perfect for beginner gardeners or anyone seeking a fuss-free plant.


• Attractive to Pollinators: The flowers attract bees and butterflies, enhancing the biodiversity of your garden.

For a vibrant, drought-tolerant plant that thrives with minimal care, Bulbine (Bulbine frutescens) is the perfect addition to your landscape or container garden.