A rare giant from the Drakensberg Mountains of South Africa. The stout broomstick-like stems have attractive wrinkled leaves and ivory white 'cushion' flowers which bloom on tall stems from July to October. A rare and spectacular addition to any garden.
Sow February to July. Sow seed on the surface of any moist seed compost and cover with compost or vermiculite to the depth of the seeds. Place in a propagator or warm place, and keep at a temperature of between 18-21ºC (65-70ºF). After sowing, do not exclude light as this helps germination. Keep the surface of the compost moist but not waterlogged; germination will usually take 10-21 days.
When large enough to handle, transplant seedlings into 7.5cm (3in) pots or trays. Gradually acclimatise to outdoor conditions for a few weeks before planting out after all risk of frost, 45-60cm (18-24in) apart.