Ledebouria socialis

Scientific name

Ledebouria socialis

General description

Ledebouria socialis is an ornamental bulb plant known for its silvery leaves with green spots, sometimes with very pronounced patterns, and for its small, teardrop-shaped bulbs visible above the substrate. A robust species, it combines aesthetics with ease of maintenance.

Origin

Native to the dry savannas of the Cape Province of South Africa.

Care

• Light : Bright indirect light; tolerates some mild sun, especially in the morning. Too little light causes the plant to stretch.
• Watering : Water when the substrate is dry on the surface; avoid excess, especially in winter.
• Humidity : Tolerates normal to low ambient humidity; prefers not too humid atmospheres.
• Temperature : between approximately 15 and 27°C; do not go below ~0-5°C to avoid cold damage.
• Substrate : well-draining mix, rich in organic matter, with mineral components (pumice, sand, perlite) to ensure good drainage.

Special advice

• Place the bulb so that a portion remains above the soil to prevent bulb rot.
• Allow the foliage to darken or change slightly depending on the light intensity to achieve more contrasting patterns.
• Allow a rest period (reduce watering, keep temperatures cooler) during the winter to promote healthy growth.
• Toxic if swallowed to animals and humans.