Eriospermum

The name comes from Greek and literally means "downy seed", referring to its seeds, covered by a white hairy layer. This plant is characterized by a woody caudex with a round stem or, in some species, with irregular and very decorative shapes. Besides its ornamental function, this massive tuber has the fundamental task of storing water, so the plant can resist autonomously during long drought periods. From the stems solitary and erect leaves come out, which are of a lanceolate shape and has prominent parallel veins; afterwards, but sometimes even before the foliage comes out, small star-shaped flowers bloom; in some species they are recognizable for their reddish stripes. It is a very resistant plant, easy to cultivate and suitable to decorate any environment, thanks to its linearity and extreme solemnity! Here are some tips for its cultivation: It requires a lot of light throughout the year. Keep it at mild temperatures, never below 10 °C. It is recommended to shelter it during the winter period. Water regularly but moderately during the growing season (when the new leaves are born), always making sure that the soil is dry between one watering and another. During the dormant period (when the leaves turn yellow and fall) suspend watering. The best soil is a well-draining and porous one, even better if further enriched with 50% or more of inert materials such as pumice, lapilli or clay. They do not need frequent fertilization, it is sufficient to dilute the fertilizer with watering once a year.