Notes on the cultivation and propagation of Chortolirion angolense (Baker) A.Berger (Asphodelaceae)

Abstract

The taxonomically controversial monotypic genus Chortolirion A.Berger (Asphodelaceae: Alooideae), with Chortolirion angolense (Baker) A.Berger as the only species, has a wide geographical distribution range in southern and south tropical Africa. This may seem to indicate that it would respond to a broad suite of environmental conditions in cultivation. However, the species remains little known in botanical gardens and private collections. This paper reports on the results of cultivation trials aimed at improving seed germination, one of the few reliable propagation mechanisms, given that bulb division often leads to the demise of both stock and cuttings. Application of smoke derived from grass fires significantly enhanced germination rates of seeds, which nonetheless remained as low as between 30 and 40%. Irrigation of seeds in trays with water infused with smoke discs was less successful.