Form
A small to medium perennial with erect, succulent, rush-like leaves. It grows to a size of 25cm x 25cm. It has the ability to store water underground during a dry summer or autumn. It dies back in dry weather but can continue to produce new leaves and flowers throughout the year if it receives additional watering in summer and autumn.
Flowering
Yellow star-like flowers to 20mm wide cluster on a leafless flowering stem from September to February.
Seeds
The black seeds are contained within a spherical shaped fruit found at the base of the flowering stem.
Shade tolerance
It grows best in semi-shade or full sun.
Garden use
Yellow Bulbine-lily is a showy, adaptable plant that grows best with regular moisture. It is drought tolerant. It is useful as a highlight plant among grasses or as a mass planting.
Local distribution
In Boroondara, there are small populations growing in Beckett Park, Balwyn and in Welfare Parade, Glen Iris.
Ecological Vegetation Class
Valley Grassy Forest, Grass Woodlands, Creekline Herbrich Woodland and Escarpment Shrubland
Vegetation benefits
Yellow bulbine-lily provides food for butterflies. Its succulent roots are edible once its leaves have died back.