Information about Eucrosia Flower

INFORMATION ABOUT EUCROSIA FLOWER...

By: Nikki Phipps

Eucrosia is a small genus of bulbs that are mostly native to Peru and Ecuador, where they grow in mountain forests that experience seasonal dry periods. They are somewhat unusual in that they have extremely long and lacy stamens, sometimes protruding from the flower tube by as much as five or six inches, giving them an exotic and unusual appearance.

Eucrosias are tropical bulbs and given warm conditions, these bulbs are not difficult to grow, but eucrosias do require greenhouse conditions in areas with cold winters.

Growing anywhere form 1-3 feet tall, these spectacular plants have spidery-looking orange, red, or yellow flowers in the spring, lasting for about 2-3 weeks, as the attractive light-green foliage appears. Even without flowers, eucrosias have beautiful foliage.

Probably considered to be the more well-known and most grown of the group is the species E. bicolor. This lovely eucrosia has orange flowers with long feathery protruding stamens. It makes an attractive cut flower and is a stunning addition to a greenhouse or warm garden. Another interesting species of eucrosia is E. mirabilis. This native of Peru has been described as one of the most spectacular bulbs in cultivation, consisting of exquisite pale yellow flowers.

Eucrosias are tender, tropical bulbs closely related to Amaryllis and do require adequate winter protection from freezing. In warmer climates, the bulbs should be planted in fall just at soil level in rich, well-drained soil. In other areas, eucrosias should be grown in containers or in a greenhouse. They are generally best grown in containers with a sandy, free-draining soil.

In the landscape, eucrosia is a spring-flowering bulb. Eucrosia is best situated in partial shade or morning sun as afternoon sun may possibly burn the leaves. The bulbs will grow in any well-drained soil and should receive periodic fertilization. In fall the leaves of eucrosia will begin to yellow, indicating the onset of dormancy. At this time, you should keep the bulbs dry to ensure longer and healthier plant growth the following season.

Do not fertilize the plant when dormant. By mid-spring the bulbs should begin to wake up and the leaves and flowers will come up at the same time. At this time (for container-grown plants) you can increase the amount of light between filtered and partial sun. Also increase the water and begin fertilizing the eucrosia.

On average, a flowering size eucrosia bulb produces 2-4 offsets every year, which can be divided if necessary for propagating. If you wish to divide the plant, the best time to do so is in late winter.