Albuca bracteata (Thunb.) J.C.Manning & Goldblatt
Pregnant onion
Distinctive for its large green bulb that protrudes well above soil level, with bulblets visible under the translucent skin (giving the "pregnant" appearance). Produces long strap-like leaves and small white flowers in a tall raceme. Very tolerant and adaptable, it has naturalised in numerous regions worldwide.
chevron_right edit_note Proposed edits auto-approved at +3 net votes
No pending proposals for this section.
Overview
| Category | Classification |
|---|---|
| Family | Asparagaceae |
| Genus | Albuca |
| Growth Habit | Bulbous geophyte with semi-aerial exposed bulb, strap-like basal leaves |
| Conservation Status | Least Concern; widely naturalised outside its native range |
| pH Target | 6.0–7.0 |
| Type | Well-drained sandy loam, neutral to slightly acidic pH |
Origin & Habitat
Morphology
Linear to strap-shaped, 20–50 cm long, bright green, slightly fleshy and channelled, emerging directly from the semi-aerial bulb.
ecoLarge ovoid bulb 5–10 cm in diameter, greyish-green, partially exposed above soil; produces numerous lateral bulblets visible beneath the outer layers.
ecoSmall white flowers with a green stripe on the outer petals, nodding, gathered in a tall raceme up to 90 cm; flowering from spring to early summer.
ecoFibrous roots emerging from the base of the semi-aerial bulb; capable of anchoring the plant in shallow rocky substrates.
ecochevron_right edit_note Proposed edits auto-approved at +3 net votes
No pending proposals for this section.
Requirements
Soil & Substrate
Type
Well-drained sandy loam, neutral to slightly acidic pH
groups Beneficial Associations
chevron_right edit_note Proposed edits auto-approved at +3 net votes
No pending proposals for this section.
Propagation Strategy
- 1 Separate the bulblets that develop on the surface of the mother bulb.
- 2 Allow the separated bulblets to dry for 1–2 days.
- 3 Plant with the bulblet partially exposed in well-draining substrate.
- 4 Water moderately and place in bright light; they root in 2–4 weeks.
- 1 Collect mature seeds when capsules open in summer.
- 2 Sow in slightly moist sandy substrate at 18–22 °C.
- 3 Keep moist but not waterlogged until germination.
- 4 Transplant seedlings to individual pots when 3–4 cm tall.
Leave the bulb partially exposed above the substrate; burying it fully inhibits flowering.
Burying the bulb completely, which prevents bulblet production and flowering.
Every 2 years at the start of autumn, before resuming watering
Balanced liquid fertilizer (NPK 10-10-10) diluted to half strength, monthly in autumn–spring
Uses & Applications
Precautions / Toxicity
Bulbs contain alkaloids that may cause gastrointestinal irritation if ingested; moderately toxic to dogs and cats.
chevron_right edit_note Proposed edits auto-approved at +3 net votes
No pending proposals for this section.
"A. bracteata was historically known as Ornithogalum caudatum. The name 'bracteata' refers to the prominent bracts on the inflorescence. Its extraordinary capacity to produce bulblets makes it one of the most spontaneously vegetatively proliferating geophytes in cultivation."
chevron_right edit_note Proposed edits auto-approved at +3 net votes
No pending proposals for this section.
Scientific Integrity
🟡 MediumVote to help validate this record
Sources
Loading…
Discussion
Disclaimer
This species record is provided for educational and informational purposes only. Jardín Roca Negra does not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of the data. Content is community-curated and may be subject to revision; it should not replace advice from a qualified botanist. This species may be toxic, invasive, or subject to legal restrictions — verify before handling or cultivating. Jardín Roca Negra accepts no liability for any harm arising from reliance on this information. Images are reproduced under Creative Commons or equivalent free licenses; credits are noted below each image.