6 plants you must grow now

Centring on summer bulbs

I've been reminiscing about the plants my Nana used to grow, particularly the ones that lined her windowsills. Two that really stand out in my memory are the striking Fireball Lily (Scadoxus multiflorus) and the impressive Pineapple Lily (Eucomis pole-evansii)—both of which she nurtured from bulbs. They weren’t your typical houseplants; they had a real presence. Looking back, I wonder if she was ahead of the curve!

This week, I’ve been browsing through the hefty catalogue from Jacques Amand International, a company known for their unusual bulb selections. I was thrilled to see they offer some of my Nana’s favourites, along with other fascinating options that can thrive on a windowsill or patio (though perhaps not the Cardiocrinum - let’s be realistic!). If you love unique plants as much as I do, I hope you’ll be tempted to try growing some of these yourself!

Scadoxus multiflorus (left) and Scadoxus Katheriniae (right)

Scadoxus multiflorus (Fireball Lily) and Scadoxus Katharinae

Here it is—a real showstopper! The Scadoxus multiflorus bursts into bloom with dazzling, fizzing flower heads made up of around 200 tiny star-like florets in a bold orange-red. It sends up its striking flowers on bare stems in August, though timing can vary depending on when it's planted, sometimes appearing as early as April or as late as June.

As a tender plant, it’s best suited as an indoor centrepiece, but it's incredibly easy to grow and, with the right care, should return year after year.

Scadoxus katharinae is just as spectacular, bringing a rich orange glow to the mix. Unlike its counterpart, its flowers often emerge alongside the foliage, creating a stunning display. They also last up to two weeks as cut flowers, and they’re beginning to make their way into high-end florists right now!

Buy multiflorus here and Katharinae here.

Eucomis pole-evansii (Pineapple Lily)

This one is super easy, and mega rewarding. I just know you’ll be marvelling at the twinkling flowers and enjoying their spicy scent. First up, the foliage is shiny like vinyl, often draping over the side of the pot in a theatrical manner. Then, the flower spikes, easily reaching 70cm, so give it plenty of space when growing indoors. It would look ace in a rustic basket planter.

Outdoors, provide a sunny spot and protect bulbs where you get frosts. A classy exotic which is just at home with your palms as with your peonies!

Buy it here.

Gloriosa superba ‘Rothschildiana’

Once you grow a Glory Lily, your life will change, I guarantee you! Most practically, it should be grown as an indoor plant, with some support for climbing. Plants can reach 2 metres in height, I think that's worth giving up a conservatory wall for, don’t you?

I just know how giddy you’ll be when your plants come into flower, eek!

Buy it here.

VIP subscribers can scroll on to read about a black Colocasia, and a garden giant that I have longed over for many years!