Eucomis 'Sparkling Burgundy'

Eucomis 'Sparkling Burgundy' is a gorgeous exotic bulb that has stood the test of time. When the leaves first come through in spring, they are deep, rich purple and hold themselves upright. As the season progresses, the colour changes to a matt bronze, then to an olive green, and then back to copper shades. The leaves also start turning over on themselves, providing a most attractive twisted look. The exuberant flower stems are a warm, rich maroon-purple. Individually, the stiff star-shaped flowers of Eucomis 'Sparkling Burgundy' open from the bottom of the spike upwards, opening into a lovely pinkish cream, with prominent cream stamens. As these flowers go over, the central knob develops into a solid, little button. As with all Eucomis, the flower spike is topped with a tuft of leaf-like bracts, giving it a pineapple-like appearance. 

Eucomis comosa 'Sparkling Burgundy' is a very distinctive, long-lasting plant, which originally came from the dry screes and meadows of South Africa. For this reason, the best flower and leaf colour is achieved if you plant it in a sunny spot. In colder areas, it is a good idea to lift the bulbs from the ground in autumn, pot them up, and move them to a sheltered spot or cool greenhouse for winter.