Drimia is a genus in the Hyacinthaceae family that has been the subject of many taxonomical revisions. The rootstock is a bulb. The starry, often white, flowers are very short-lived. Most species have flowers that only last a few hours with one to three blooms opening each day. Larger species may have more flowers in bloom at a time. Some consider the Mediterranean, North African and western Asiatic species formerly in Urginea to be now included in Drimia but not everyone agrees. African genera once separated as Litanthus, Rhadamanthus, Schizobasis and Tenicroa are now included in Drimia. The African species are not generally cultivated because their flowers are not very spectacular and do not last very long. African species usually grow in seasonally dry regions and flower in late spring or summer.
Seeds of Drimia are reported to be ephemeral lasting 6-12 months. However, since the genus Drimia is now expanded to include many previous genera, this information may not hold true. Fresh seeds are always better. They should be sown just prior the appropriate growing season, in a well-drained mix with plenty of moisture.
More information can be found by clicking on one of the Drimia groups in the expanded genus or by selecting the species in the table below : Drimia - Litanthus - Rhadamanthus - Tenicroa - Urginea
