When I visited the Malvern Flower Show earlier this year I came across a plant that I was not at all familiar with and had never grown. And for those two reasons I had to have it!
Albuca shawii is an unusual bulbous perennial. It is only about 40cm high, the leaves are narrow and upright almost grass-like. The flower spikes have been steadily growing taller over the past week and have finally begun to flower. They have produced the most beautiful little bell shaped flowers that are yellow with a faint green stripe. The flowers are scented and remind me a little of marzipan and sweets. The foliage is also aromatic when you run your fingers over it.
For now I will continue to grow it in a pot in a shelter sunny spot close to the house. I’m not quite sure how it will fair over winter yet but hopefully this plant will be with me for a long time yet. I have come across companies selling the seed so I’m guessing it may to easy to propagate this way. I will harvest the seed produced this year and hopefully increase the numbers of this pretty little flower for next year.