Flora Detail

Common Name Dotted Viooltjie, Sandviooltjie (Afr.)
Family Asparagaceae (Agave and Allies)
Date Observed 16-05-2025
Category Bulbs/Rhizomes
Catalogue No. 7778RGu
Flowering Time Spring
Colour Pink to Mauve
Locations Observed
Estuary
Koppie
Nature Reserve
Small Holding
Village Few
Greater Rooiels

Lachenalia punctata

Information

Dotted Viooltjie, Sandviooltjie (Afr.)

Lachenalia punctata (formerly L. rubida), commonly known as the Dotted Viooltjie or Sandviooltjie, is a small, spring-flowering bulbous perennial endemic to South Africa’s Western and Northern Cape provinces. Growing 6–25 cm tall, it features 1–2, often spotted leaves and nodding, tubular coral-red to pink flowers with dark spots, blooming from March to August. 
Key Characteristics and Details:
Appearance: The flower stalks are typically mottled with magenta, holding flowers that appear just before or with the leaves. Flowers are generally coral to red, but can range from pale pink to dark red.
Habitat & Distribution: Thrives on sandy flats and slopes, ranging from Namaqualand to George.
Cultivation: Highly recommended for pot culture and rockeries, as it is relatively easy to cultivate.
Growth Cycle: A winter-growing bulb that goes dormant during the summer months.
Propagation: Easily grown from seeds, which should be sown in autumn.
Synonyms: Lachenalia rubida (formerly), L. rubida var. punctata, L. tigrina. 
Lachenalia punctata is well-suited for winter rainfall regions and requires well-drained, sandy soil. It is considered safe in terms of conservation status.
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