Kudu Lily

The Velvetmia bracteata, more commonly known as the Kudu lily, is an evergreen, bulbous species endemic to South Africa. It gets its name from the velvety texture of the leaves and the bracts that surround its flowers. The Kudu lily is a compact perennial with a single stem, leafy foliage, and beautiful, bell-shaped flowers. The long, slender leaves are 6 to 8 inches long and 2 or 3 inches wide. The flowers of the Kudu lily are a striking pink-purple color, some with darker stripes. They have 6 tepals (petals) that form a bell-shaped bloom, with a yellow center. Blooming in summer to early fall, the Kudu lily grows best in areas of full or partial shade. It requires little maintenance and doesn't require much water.