From the rainforests of Brazil - or what's left of them - comes this rarely seen gem, Griffinia liboniana. Closely related to the super-rare Worsleya, the legendary "blue Amaryllis", it is almost a miniature version of it. Even without flowers, it sparkles with its gorgeous spotted leaves! Unlike Worsleya, it is very easy to grow. Unfortunately the plant is critically endangered in the wild due to deforestation, and is facing extinction.

Griffinia is an evergreen bulb with leaves that grow to around 6-8" tall. The plant multiplies readily with bulblets, which you may separate. It can flower any time of year, but mostly in the spring and summer. Each flower stalk is about 8-10" tall, with 6 to 9 blooms. The flower color is a glowing bluish-purple with white — truly exquisite. The plant can go semi-dormant or dormant for 2 or 3 months, before bursting forth with its wonderfully spotted leaves!

Griffinia is easy to grow. Optimal temperatures are between 60 and 90° F (15-33°C). The plant will go dormant if exposed to frost, but it's best to protect it from all frost. Fortunately it grows great indoors as a houseplant. Just keep it in a 4-6" pot in rich, well-draining potting soil that's kept evenly moist (but not soggy). In the wild, it grows under dense forest cover, so it is happiest in bright shade. Protect it from prolonged sun exposure. You'll be surprised how low-maintenance this plant is. Over about 40% humidity is recommended.