For the identification of insects and other fauna and flora of South Africa.

Saturday, June 30, 2012

Giant False Scilla (Ledebouria zebrina)

Family Hyacinthaceae
One of the largest and densest populations of Ledebouria zebrina recorded from Natal is found within a few metres of the Bivane River below the dam wall. L. zebrina is the largest South African species and these plants have broad “zebra stripes” towards the leaf bases.
 In addition to the zebra stripes, which are spectacular in their own right, the inner leaf surfaces bear cloudings and blotching of purplish red brown bluish grey and underlying slate. The leaves are suffused with a powdery bluish bloom and look particularly attractive after winter grass fires.
 The spikes of numerous cream flowers and fresh leaves look at their best in late October and early November.