Cape coast lily
Crinum macowanii

Family: Amaryllidaceae

What it is like

A bulb. The bulbs are 6-25 cm across. It has fleshy roots. The leaves are large and up to 1 m long by 2-20 cm wide. They are bright green and fleshy and strap-like with wavy edges. The flowers are white with pink stripes. They have a scent.

Where it is found

It is a tropical plant. It grows well in sun but can tolerate light shade. They are drought tolerant.

Countries/locations it is found in

Africa, Botswana, East Africa, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Mozambique, South Africa, Zambia, Zimbabwe

How it is used for food

Edible parts

Tubers, root, caution

How it is grown

Plants are usually grown by seeds.

Its other names

Local names

Common vlei-lily, River crinum, River lily

Synonyms

Crinum corradii Chiov. ex Chiarugi; Crinum gouwsii Traub.; Crinum johnstonii Baker; Crinum macowanii subsp. confusum Verd.; Crinum pedicellatum Pax.;