Ammocharis coranica lives up to its common name, sore eye flower. This striking beautiful bulb, with its umbel inflorescence, delivers spectacular flower displays after good summer rains and is one of the most attractive species in the amaryllis family.

Description

Ammocharis coranica is a summer-growing, deciduous bulb and grows to a height of 200 to 350 mm, when flowering. This species has a spherical-shaped bulb, 150–200 mm in diameter and covered in thinly layered tunics. Each bulb consists of 9–15 green leaves, broadly strap-shaped and sickle shaped, 300–450 mm long, with very finely toothed margins. Leaves lie flat on the surface of the soil.

Ammocharis coranica has a rounded inflorescence of pink or reddish pink, trumpet-shaped, sweetly scented flowers, which protrudes above ground after the leaves have appeared. This inflorescence appears in summer, from September to March. The tepals of the flower are strongly curved backwards, which allows the stamens to be exserted. Ammocharis coranica has very fleshy seeds, which are covered by a thin, membrane-like layer.

Distribution and habitat

Ammocharis coranica is widespread in southern Africa, occurring from Angola to Zimbabwe and in all the Provinces of South Africa, including the Western Cape. This species grows in a variety of soils, ranging from sand to clay types. It prefers sandy soils, open flat areas and full sun. This bulb species thrives in dry areas and can stay alive though long periods of drought.

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