Bomarea plants are spectacular vines that are closely related to Alstroemeria, the "Peruvian Lily" seen in flower arrangements. Shown here is an extremely rare form from Ecuador called "Big Red". Throughout the year, it explodes with color with big clusters of oversized blooms - possibly the largest of all Bomareas. The species name is undetermined. I don't know anyone else offering fresh seeds.
Even in winter, the clusters are amazing!
The "Big Red" Bomarea is a tuberous, evergreen vine with long, attractive shoots that twine their way up another plant, or along an arbor or trellis. The scarlet-red blossoms appear most months of the year on mature plants, including winter, when most other plants are drab. The clusters can have 20-30 or more flowers, each about 2 inches long. Each bloom is attached to the cluster by an attractive burgundy base. Unlike some Bomarea species, the Big Red generally doesn't go dormant if kept from freezing.
Most Bomareas prefer mild temperatures and cooler nights. This one is untested in hot conditions, but i suspect it might not thrive if temperatures consistently get above 85 degrees F (30°C), and nights are warm (above 65°F / 18°C). The foliage may be killed by frost, but the tubers should be hardy to at least 25 degrees F (-4 C). Still, i recommend protecting the plant from freezing temperatures.
It likes mostly-sunny conditions, with some protection from hot afternoon sun. Give it something to twine itself around, like a trellis, wires, etc. If the shoots grow too tall, don't cut them; simply wrap them down and around the trellis. The plant likes fertile, well-draining soil that is kept evenly moist. Over about 40-45% humidity is best.
This auction is for 6 fresh seeds. The germination rate is excellent when you follow the tips on my website - www.StrangeWonderfulThings.com/tips124.htm. Promptly sent in a padded envelope. Outside the United States, the tracking number will show proof of shipping, but it might not show more details unless your country is listed here. If you have questions, please contact me.
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| Strange Wonderful Things is your source for exotic, hard-to-find plants that bring the excitement back into gardening! Most of the plants in my collection are rarely seen in nurseries, and a few are sold nowhere else on the internet. I am a low-volume grower and don't produce many plants, so if you see something you like, please bid early! I personally answer all emails, and provide free "technical support" through my website. - Good growing! - Jeff |
Photos and text copyright 2018 by Strange Wonderful Things