This group of succulent bulbs is originally from South Africa. The species belonging to this group are fairly easy to grow as long as they are kept fairly dry when dormant. Albuca spiralis is a very interesting variety that produces slender, fleshy, glossy green leaves that grow in a tight corkscrew when exposed to bright light. The succulent bulb of this plant can grow more than 2 inches in diameter, eventually forming clusters. In late summer, an unbranched flower spike, growing up to 6 inches high, produces small, drooping, greenish flowers. These plants can be grown in pots in a frost-free greenhouse.

Albucas will not survive frost. A minimum temperature of 45º F. is necessary. They should be planted in the spring, 4 inches deep, in fertile soil that has good drainage. Their tips should be protruding from the surface of the soil. They should be kept fairly dry when dormant.

Offsets or small bulbs may be detached and potted in the spring.

Albuca fastigiata (white flowers in June);
Albuca aurea (yellow flowers in early summer);
Albuca spiralis.