Schizocarphus is a genus in the Hyacinthaceae family containing species from the genus Scilla. Scientific studies using DNA sequencing technology have shown that what we know as Scilla actually appear to have multiple evolutionary origins. Therefore it seemed reasonable to recognise each coherent group as separate genera. Schizocarphus is in the sub-Saharan African/Indian group. Schizocarphus nervosus, which may actually represent more than one species, is summer-growing with multiple scapes per season and black ovoid seeds. Unfertilised flowers drop off. This information provided by Julian Slade. For more information about the proposed Scilla changes consult his pbs list post.
Schizocarphus nervosus syn. Scilla nervosa is found in grassland from the Eastern Cape of South Africa to tropical Africa. It forms rounded clumps with large buried bulbs with fibrous sheaths. There are many small flowers on a stalk, white or creamy yellow with a green or blackish ovary. Photos by Cameron McMaster.
Photos taken January 2010 by Mary Sue Ittner at Gaika's Kop.
