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Mokolodi Nurseries -
Bulbines

Bulbines are easy to grow,

waterwise succulents that
make a beautiful ground

cover in the garden. A few
species are actually
indigenous to Botswana like

B. abyssinica, B. angustifolia, B
capitata, B. frutescens, and B.

narcissifolia.

Contrary to their name, Bulbines do
not have a bulbous base, but form
spreading clumps that are easy to
propagate by splitting. Their leaves are
grey or green and fleshy, and quite
architectural too. Planted en masse they
make quite a phenomenal display.

The petals are either yellow or
sometimes orange, and are incredibly
popular with bees. Not only is it an
attractive garden plant but it is
medicinal too: the fresh leaf produces
a jelly-like juice, like Aloe vera, that is
wonderful for burns, rashes, blisters,
insect bites, cracked lips, and scrapes.

Plant it in full sun on well drained
soil and prune it back when it gets
scraggly. It is very drought tolerant, so
makes an ideal addition to any
rockery.
Text by S.C & Pic by Karin Duthie
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