Cryptostephanus Q?
James Waddick (Thu, 04 Dec 2008 13:04:40 PST)

Dear Friends,
I had a question from a person in Germany who responded to
comments on this web site. I suggested he join the group, but is
thinking about it.

He asks " Is Cryptostephanus densiflorus in cultivation?".

As you surely know there are three species in this genus. The
commonest is Cryptostephanus vansonii and it looks like a miniature
Clivia miniata with white (or pink) flowers.

Far less common is Cryptostephanus haemanthoides, a very
different looking bulbous plants of semi-desert locations. A very
few nurseries offer bulbs.

The third and rarest species is Cryptostephanus densiflorus
endemic to a small area of Angola. Harold Koopowitz in his book on
Clivia suggests it is not in cultivation. Angola has enough social
turmoil that it is not open to much botanizing.

Can anyone provide an update on this species? Thanks Jim W.

--
Dr. James W. Waddick
8871 NW Brostrom Rd.
Kansas City Missouri 64152-2711
USA
Ph. 816-746-1949
Zone 5 Record low -23F
Summer 100F +