[Overview]
A bulbous perennial of which about 40 species are known in the wild.
Many somewhat fleshy, narrow leaves grow from the base of the plant.
An upright flower stalk bears a raceme at its tip.
The flowers are urn-shaped or tubular and usually grow densely, facing downward.
The flowers are blue-purple or white, but yellow, yellow-green and other colors also occur.
The seeds are round and black.
[Uses]
Several kinds, including Budo-musukari, are cultivated for the purpose of extracting fragrance.
[Cultivation]
Propagate by seed and by dividing the bulbs.
It prefers well-drained, slightly sandy soil.
Care is needed against dryness during the growing season.
It dislikes acidic soil, so apply lime.
