Rhodophiala bifida

[anita]

Hi, A few Rhodophiala bifida in the garden have set seed for the first time. The capsules which look very like the three segmented capsules of hippeastrum  or zephyranthes are not ripe yet. I presume I should wait until they start to split before collecting the seed. Do I then sow immediately ( Southern Hemisphere so I'm heading into winter) or should I wait? Sow shallow or deep?
Thanks Anita

[Ezeiza]

The capsules will change from green to straw when ripe. If you press them gently at that stage they will split open to reveal the black paper seeds. Sow immediately and germination will be 100%. Better to use a pot large enough to acomodate all the seed for two whole seasons. Sow covered with 3-5 mm. of grit to anchor the seed and gently water daily until germination is complete.
 
They resent disturbance as all amaryllids do therefore it is better to pot the whole rootball undisturbed to a larger pot (or the ground) after the second year is over. When doing this you can bury them a good deal deeper as this hastens maturity.

It is a native here but it has become rare due to development.

[anita]

Thank you Alberto,
Sounds very similar to Hippeastrums. Hopefully I will be as successful with Rhodophiala as Hippies which grew very easily from fresh seed.
Regards Anita

[Ezeiza]

In many ways, Anita, but R. bifida is summer dormant and comes from a region with year round rainfall, therefore it will thrive in that part of your garden that receives extra water in summer when it is dormant.