Botanical name:

Bulbinella modesta

Common name(s):

Māori onion

About:

As its botanical name aptly suggests, this is an unassuming plant that is easily overlooked when it is not in bloom. It typically grows to a height of up to 30cm tall, featuring narrow and elongated leaves that add to its unobtrusive appearance. During the summer months, however, it reveals its charm with delightful lemon-yellow flowers that are carried rather sparingly on short stems. This lovely plant can be found thriving in damp areas along the west coast of the South Island, specifically from Buller to Okarito, where it enhances the natural beauty of its surroundings.

Natural habitat:

Lowland pakihi and associated swamp forest.

Growing environment:

Frost, Sun, Shade, Wind & Wetland tolerant.

Endemic distribution:

New Zealand’s South Island on the West Coast. Known from scattered sites in lowland habitats south of Westport to about Okarito.

Height: 30cm

Flowering:

December - January with a yellow coloured flower/s

Fruiting:

December – March

Uses:

Bird food / Attractant, Bee food & Riparian plantings

How to grow:

Easily grown from seed or division. Needs a good moist soil.

** Seed germinates without pre treatment. 4 weeks cold stratification will help speed this up though