South African "Cliff Marbles"

Lynn-Marie has long had an interest in some of the South African bulbs which can be grown with a very bonsai-like effect. Recently our seed grown (seeded in June of 2004) plants of Ornithogalum juncifolium have become large enough to offer. Here's an example of this lovely little bulb:

Since it often grows on cliffs in South Africa, it is sometimes called the "Cliff Marble", or more commonly, the "Rush-leaved Star of Bethlehem". The bulbs are photosynthetically active and are sometimes translucent. These bulbs are about 2 cm (3/4 in.) in diameter and may grow up to 4 cm. (1.5 in.) and require a well draining soil, adequate water and bright sun. [Hardy to zone 9]