How to grow Bessera
Bessera are perennials with narrow, long leaves and brightly coloured, hanging flowers that bloom in summer/autumn. They are native to Mexico. They are best suited to borders and containers and are perfect for a tropical garden.
You should expect to see your Bessera grow to an approximate height and spread of up to 1m (3ft).
Key Information
Soil pH
Position
Hardiness
Where & when to plant Bessera
Urginea are large bulbs which form clumps just on the surface of the soil. For best results, they should be planted in the autumn, in to moist but well-drained soil. They prefer a sunny spot but can cope with part shade. If you are not ready to plant your Leucojum bulbs when you receive them, store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated place in temperatures between 4-20°C for a short while but be careful they do not dry out too much. Alternatively, you could plant them in moist compost in a pot until you are ready.
How to plant Bessera
Bessera are best planted in a well-drained soil of loam or sand within an acidic, alkaline or neutral PH balance. They are best suited to a sheltered position in full sun, as they are used to a warm climate. A good way to grow the bulbs is to plant them in bulb pots and sink the whole pot into the ground.
These plants are tender and so are not frost hardy, so we recommend bringing them inside over the winter when the flowers have finished and foliage has died back, store in a dry dark location and plant out again once the risk of frost has passed.
What to plant with Urginea
Urginea are imposing plants, creating a dramatic statement when planted alone, creating quite an impressive clump when they have naturalised.
However, when grown amongst grasses or interspersed Allium they look incredible.
When choosing companion plants, think about the growing conditions that are preferred by each plant. Maybe grow Urginia maritima with Allium Forelock, Moly or Hair – the almost globe-like spheres of blooms will hover above the foliage but will have faded by the time the Urginea flowers have fully developed so will not detract from the spectacle.
Whether grown in borders or containers, the period when the foliage is absent could be filled with a low growing, evergreen carpet of Delosperma Suntropics Purple, Copper or Red, which become covered with bright almost neon coloured daisy-like flowers from spring until the first frosts.
