A new bulbbler...
M. Gastil-Buhl (Sat, 04 Jan 2014 08:57:49 PST)

I am delighted to confirm Gregg's assertion that the Cactus and
Succulent crowd are also interested in winter growing bulbs. The
presentation by Tom Glavich covered an impressive breadth of winter
growing species both succulent and bulbous, sometimes both. The slide
show macro photographs projected even the most tiny blooms to floor-to-
ceiling height to be viewed by the crowd of over 50 in attendance. The
majority of species displayed were of South African origin, along with
some other Mediterranean areas including our own California species of
Triteleia and Calochortus. I noticed many of the bulbous plants
presented displayed leaves of as much or more visual interest as the
flowers; this may be part of the crossover between an interest in
succulents and bulbs. He described his growing conditions, including
cold frames and a mostly-pumice potting medium and his southern
California climate. The audience asked questions particular to winter-
growth and summer dormancy. I wish I had brought a notebook and pen!
Tom brought a tray of seedlings to tempt those of us with the
acquisitive disorder Gregg mentioned. The society members filled
several tables with offerings for their raffle, including several
Massonia and curly-leafed Albuca. PBS was mentioned as a source of
bulbs and seed so possibly we may see some new members. Thank you Jim
and Gregg for posting the event and thank you to Tom for the beautiful
and interesting presentation.

- Gastil
Santa Barbara, California