Contents
Description
Veltheimia is a genus of bulbous plants that are native to southern Africa. They belong to the Asphodelaceae family and are known for their showy flowers that bloom in winter. Veltheimia are popular houseplants and garden plants due to their beautiful appearance and ease of care.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Asphodelaceae |
| Genus | Veltheimia |
Appearance
Veltheimia plants have strap-like leaves that grow in a rosette pattern. The leaves can be up to 2 feet long and 2 inches wide. The flowers grow on a tall stalk that can reach up to 2 feet in height. The flowers are tubular and come in shades of pink, red, orange, and yellow. They have six petals and are arranged in a spike-like cluster.
Care Guide
Veltheimia are relatively easy to care for and can thrive in a variety of conditions. Here are some tips for caring for Veltheimia:
- Water: Water Veltheimia plants regularly during the growing season, but allow the soil to dry out between waterings. During the dormant season, water sparingly.
- Fertilization: Feed Veltheimia plants with a balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season.
- Soil: Veltheimia plants prefer well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: Veltheimia plants prefer bright, indirect sunlight. They can also tolerate some shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Veltheimia plants are hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Veltheimia plants are relatively pest and disease-resistant, but they can still be affected by some common problems. Here are some of the most common pests and diseases that can affect Veltheimia:
- Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause yellowing and wilting of the leaves. They can be controlled with insecticidal soap.
- Mealybugs: These white, cottony pests can cause stunted growth and yellowing of the leaves. They can be controlled with insecticidal soap.
- Crown rot: This fungal disease can cause the plant to wilt and die. It can be prevented by ensuring the soil is well-draining and not overwatering the plant.
- Leaf spot: This fungal disease can cause brown spots on the leaves. It can be prevented by ensuring the plant has good air circulation and avoiding overhead watering.
Habitat
Veltheimia plants are native to southern Africa, where they grow in rocky, well-draining soil. They are often found growing in the shade of larger plants and trees.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Veltheimia plants be grown outdoors?
A: Yes, Veltheimia plants can be grown outdoors in USDA zones 9-11. They prefer well-draining soil and bright, indirect sunlight.
Q: How often should Veltheimia plants be fertilized?
A: Veltheimia plants should be fertilized every two weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: How often should Veltheimia plants be watered?
A: Veltheimia plants should be watered regularly during the growing season, but the soil should be allowed to dry out between waterings. During the dormant season, water sparingly.
Q: What is the best way to propagate Veltheimia plants?
A: Veltheimia plants can be propagated by dividing the bulbs in the fall. The bulbs should be planted in well-draining soil and kept moist until new growth appears.
Related Plants
- Asphodelus
- Bulbine
- Gasteria
- Tulbaghia
References
- “Veltheimia bracteata.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed August 30, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=255008&isprofile=0&basic=veltheimia.
- “Veltheimia.” PlantZAfrica. Accessed August 30, 2021. http://pza.sanbi.org/veltheimia.
- “Veltheimia.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed August 30, 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/21132/veltheimia/details.
