Albuca shawii

From Drakensberg Mountains in South Africa, Albuca shawii, or Shaw's albuca, is an unusual plant with nodding bright yellow, green-striped, almond-scented flowers in summer. The fine, aromatic foliage has a slight liquorice aroma when stroked or crushed.

Plant Albuca shawii bulbs in spring, ideally in a pot, as the plants are not reliably hardy in UK winters. Incorporate plenty of grit into the compost, as plants need good drainage, and grow in a sunny spot. Lift and store the bulbs over winter before replanting in spring. Alternatively, grow plants from seed.