This is a rare look at the spectacular Brunsvigia grandiflora - the "Candelabra Lily". This uncommon relative of Crinum and Hippeastrum comes from South Africa, where it is dwindling in numbers. Its large bulb sends up a huge flower cluster 16 to 20 inches across that's like a pink fireworks show! Even without blooms the plant has much appeal, with its thick, wavy-margined leaves that often spiral.

Brunsvigia grandiflora forms a large bulb up to 8 inches across. It is dormant for the summer, and then grows from autumn through early spring. It has about 10 to 15 upright, bluish-green leaves with undulating edges. The leaves usually emerge around the same time as the flower stalk. The impressive stalk makes its appearance in November/December here in California. The cluster can be up 30 inches tall and have over 50 flowers in multiple shades of pink. Each flower is about 1½ inches across. The plant can reach blooming size at 6 to 8 years old. You might be able to cross-breed it with Amaryllis belladonna and related species.

This species comes from eastern South Africa, where temperatures are usually spring-like. It therefore does best between 40 degrees and the low-80s (5-28°C) during the growing season of autumn through late winter. It should be kept relatively dry during the summer dormancy, and given regular watering during the growing period. The leaves can probably tolerate a light frost, but i recommend protecting the plant from freezing temperatures. It does well in a pot in equal parts of sand, compost, and pumice rock or fine gravel. The bulb can either be half-exposed, or with the neck at the soil surface. Full sun is best.

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