Green Drimiopsis

Afrikaans name:

Green Drimiopsis

Photo © Steven Herbert

Ledebouria petiolata / Drimiopsis maculata

The Green Drimiopsis is called a number of different names including Leopard Plant, White Soldiers, African Hosta and African False Hosta. It is a distinctive plant that is found in Tanzania through to South Africa.

In South Africa it is only found in the eastern regions of the country from the Eastern Cape to Mpumalanga.

This is a bulbous plant that thrives in dappled shade. The bulb is around 4 cm in length. It grows to a height of around 25 to 30 cm and the flower stalks are another 30 cm. The distinctive leaves are up to 12 cm long and are bright green with purple spots. The flowers are small and white and are clustered together to form a spike. The flowers normally appear between September and April. It multiplies through the creation of side bulbs.

The Green Drimiopsis is a popular plant amongst gardeners and does well in a container. It prefers a shaded spot. It makes a great groundcover in shady areas, and it is hardy which makes it a good choice for many gardens.

Traditionally a concoction is made from the bulb to treat stomach ailments in children.

References and further reading

Indigenous Garden Plants of Southern Africa - Author: Glenice Ebedes - Published: 2017 - Page: 132

A Field Guide to Wild Flowers in KwaZulu-Natal and the Eastern Region - Author: Elsa Pooley - Published: 2005 - Page: 512

SANBI Ledebouria petiolata

Top