Massonia pustulata, the blistered massonia, is a species of flowering plant in the family Asparagaceae, subfamily Scilloidiae, native to the Western Cape of South Africa. Growing to 10 cm (3.9 in) tall and broad, it is a small bulbous perennial with two horizontal, opposite leaves, and virtually stalkless cream or pink flowers in winter. The stamens are longer than the perianth, giving the flower the appearance of a rounded, spiky brush-head.[3] The deep "pock marks" on the leaves give the plant its common name, as well as the specific epithet pustulata.

Massonia pustulata
Scientific classification Edit this classification
Kingdom: Plantae
Clade: Tracheophytes
Clade: Angiosperms
Clade: Monocots
Order: Asparagales
Family: Asparagaceae
Subfamily: Scilloideae
Genus: Massonia
Species:
M. pustulata
Binomial name
Massonia pustulata
Synonyms
  • Massonia scabra
  • Massonia schlechtendalii[2]

In temperate zones it requires protection as it does not survive being frozen. Its small size makes it a suitable subject for a pot under glass.[3] It has been given the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit.[4][5]

The Massonia genus of plants is named for Scottish botanist and gardener Francis Masson, who was Kew Gardens' first plant hunter.

References

edit
  1. ^ "Massonia pustulata Jacq". International Plant Names Index. Retrieved 4 April 2018.
  2. ^ a b "Massonia pustulata Jacq". The Plant List. Retrieved 4 April 2018.
  3. ^ a b "Massonia pustulata - Plant of the Month Dec 2015". The Alpine Garden Society. Retrieved 4 April 2018.
  4. ^ "RHS Plantfinder - Massonia pustulata". Retrieved 4 April 2018.
  5. ^ "AGM Plants - Ornamental" (PDF). Royal Horticultural Society. July 2017. p. 64. Retrieved 4 April 2018.