Nothoscordum bivalve
Nothoscordum bivalve · Amaryllidaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant nothoscordum bivalve: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Common name
- Two-leaved garlic, False garlic
- Family
- Amaryllidaceae
- Form
- Bulb
- Flowering
- Spring (April to May)
- Adult size
- 20 to 40 cm in height
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Hardiness
- Hardy down to -15 °C
- Origin
- North and South America
Care
Exposure
Plant Nothoscordum bivalve in full sun or partial shade for generous flowering. It tolerates semi-shaded locations well, especially in warm climates. A minimum of 4 hours of direct sun daily optimizes vigor and blooming.
Soil and planting
Prefer well-draining, fairly light soil, as the bulb fears waterlogging. Plant bulbs in autumn, 8-10 cm deep and spaced 15 cm apart. Slightly poor soil is acceptable; adding sand improves drainage if needed.
Watering
During the growing season (autumn to spring), keep the soil slightly moist. Once flowering ends and foliage wilts, gradually reduce watering. In summer, the bulb's dormancy period calls for minimal water.
Fertilization
A light application of balanced fertilizer in spring, as leaves emerge, is generally sufficient. Avoid excess nitrogen which would favor foliage over blooms. A simple application of fine compost in autumn can also nourish the bulb.
Pruning and cleanup
No pruning is necessary. Simply remove spent flowers to encourage better vigor. Let foliage naturally wither after flowering so the bulb accumulates reserves before its summer dormancy.
Diseases and pests
Nothoscordum bivalve is generally robust. Avoid excessive watering which could cause bulb rot. In persistent humidity, watch for rot or damping off of bulbs. Ensure good air circulation in the planting area to prevent fungal issues.
Did you know?
Nothoscordum bivalve is often confused with garlic (Allium) but lacks the characteristic pungent odor of the latter, earning its nickname of "false garlic." Native to the Americas, it has naturalized in many temperate regions where it flowers generously each spring, bringing a delicate touch to the garden without overtaking its space.
Where to buy it
Plant the bulbs in autumn for spring flowering. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: from September to November.
Add this plant to my garden →Plants from the same family
- RamsonsAllium ursinum
- ChivesAllium schoenoprasum
- Sand leekAllium scorodoprasum
- Elephant garlicAllium ampeloprasum
- OnionAllium cepa
- Belladonna lilyAmaryllis belladonna
Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.