How to plant Roscoea

Roscoea are hardy perennial bulbs and can tolerate temperatures down to -15C. This means that they can be planted directly outside in the spring in most areas and don’t require winter frost protection.

— Plant directly into a clear, well-dug space in a border between March and May. You can also plant them straight into patio containers.

— Roscoea don’t mind heavy soils with some clay, they can also be planted in rich, free-draining loamy soils. Choose a position which is in full shade or partial shade.

— Plant with the crown facing upwards and tubers pointing downwards, around 5-10cm deep in borders or patio containers.

— Space the bulbs around 10-15cm apart from each other.

— If planting in patio containers, it’s best to use soil-based compost or multipurpose with added loam.

— Water-in after planting and continue to water regularly once in growth in the first year.

— Remove the flower stems after flowering and cut back foliage to ground level in autumn. They bulbs can stay outdoors in their planted positions without any frost protection over winter.

Planting instructions