Rosy morning glory
Romulea rosea · Iridaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant rosy morning glory: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Family
- Iridaceae
- Type
- Bulbous plant
- Mature height
- 15 to 25 cm
- Flowering
- Spring (February to April)
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Hardiness
- Tender (grow in pots or protect in cold regions)
- Origin
- South Africa
- Exposure
- Sunny
Care
Exposure
Place your pink Romulea in full sun for abundant and colorful blooms. It needs at least 6 hours of direct light daily. In very hot regions, light afternoon shade can prevent excessive drying.
Watering
Water moderately during growth and flowering, keeping the soil slightly moist without waterlogging. Significantly reduce watering after flowering, ceasing completely during summer dormancy. Let the substrate dry between waterings.
Soil and substrate
Use a light, well-draining mix: bulb-specific potting soil or a blend of leaf mold, sand, and perlite. Good drainage is essential to prevent bulb rot. In pots, add a drainage layer at the bottom.
Fertilizer
Apply balanced diluted fertilizer in spring when leaves appear. A second application low in nitrogen can support flowering. Stop all fertilizing after flowering and during summer rest.
Pruning and cleaning
Remove spent flowers to encourage new blooms. After foliage completely dries, cut dead leaves and clean the plant. Let the bulb rest dry during summer.
Diseases and pests
Watch for bulb rot if humidity is excessive, especially in pots. Ensure good air circulation and check drainage regularly. Pests are rare in cultivation; a dry environment limits health risks.
Did you know?
The pink Romulea originates from South African meadows, where it blooms during spring rains. Its botanical name, Romulea, honors Romulus, the legendary founder of Rome. Once confused with crocuses, these delicate flowers with pink and white hues long fascinated botanists and explorers.
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
- Early crocusCrocus tommasinianus
- Narrow-leaved blue-eyed grassSisyrinchium angustifolium
- Tiger irisIris domestica
- Fringed irisIris japonica
- Japanese irisIris ensata
- Snow CrocusCrocus chrysanthus
Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.