Society garlic - Tulbaghia violacea (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images, Toxic)

Society garlic

Also known as: Pink agapanthus, Spring flowers

Society garlic (Tulbaghia violacea) is a perennial plant that grows in clusters and is often planted at borders. Society garlic can be planted in mass as a ground cover. This plant's stalks emit a garlic-like odor, which is how it gets its name. This plant prefers full sun and well-drained soil.

Scientific classification

Species

Society garlic (Tulbaghia violacea)

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Toxic to Humans

Toxicity

Perennial

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Summer

Bloom Time

Fall

Harvest Time

60 cm

Plant Height

25 cm

Spread

Green, Gray, Silver

Leaf Color

2 cm

Flower Size

Purple, Pink, Blue, Lavender, Violet

Flower Color

Green, Gray, Silver, Purple

Stem Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Evergreen

Leaf type

15 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Spring, Summer, Fall

Growth Season

Moderate

Growth Rate

Images of Society garlic

Distribution of Society garlic

Distribution Map

Society garlic is indigenous to the southernmost parts of the African continent, where it flourishes in a variety of settings. Beyond its native habitat, society garlic has been introduced and can now be found growing in regions of Central America and Eastern Africa. This resilient plant has also been widely cultivated, indicative of its adaptability to diverse environments outside its original range.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Forest margins, stream banks

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Flowering

Fruiting

Culture

Garden Use

Gardeners appreciate the society garlic's sweetly fragrant lilac-colored blooms atop tall stems. A winner of the Award of Garden Merit, society garlic is renowned for its use as a border or edging plant in cottage, rock, and herb gardens across the world.

Symbolism

Courage, strength, get well, ward off evil and illness

Interesting Facts

Society garlic has been eaten as a substitute for garlic while in South Africa, the leaves and flowers are eaten like spinach. However, there has been some evidence of illness and possible death from eating this plant. Society garlic produces an interesting odor. It is sometimes confused with the smell of skunks and even marijuana.

Name Story

Society garlic: Society garlic is also known as Tulbaghia violacea. It receives its common name because the plant was once thought to taste like garlic without leaving behind the obvious breath odor that comes from eating traditional garlic. However, society garlic is not in the same genus as garlic or onions.

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Toxicity

Society garlic is toxic to humans, cats, and dogs; ingestion of any part can cause symptoms like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Small children and pets are particularly vulnerable. Immediate medical or veterinary attention is crucial in case of suspected poisoning.

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Quickly Identify Society garlic

Linear, arching, grass-like leaves emit strong garlic scent when bruised.

Smooth, cylindrical stems with vibrant green color, resembling succulents.

Distinctive triangular fruit capsule with textured surface and black seeds.

Lilac-pink flowers on 20-inch stalks with fragrant, pointed tepals and tubular corolla.

Evergreen foliage resists cool temperatures, producing umbels of lavender flowers.

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Care Guide for Society garlic

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

15 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Society garlic originates from Southern Africa, thriving in arid conditions with infrequent rainfall. It requires moderate drought tolerance and should be watered weekly. As a perennial herb, society garlic benefits from natural rain patterns, enhancing its growth and flowering potential.

Fertilize: Society garlic thrives with a balanced fertilizer monthly in the growing season and every two months during dormancy. Use high-phosphorus mixes for blooming. Adjust feeding according to seasonal changes. Opt for slow-release formulas to prevent root burn and enhance vigor and flowering potential.

Pruning: Society garlic features fragrant garlic-scented leaves and violet flowers. Careful pruning in early spring removes dead foliage and promotes new growth. Regularly remove spent flower stalks to encourage blooming, and late winter pruning shapes the plant, enhancing air circulation and reducing disease risk.

Propagation: Society garlic, a native African perennial herb, features aromatic leaves and mauve flowers. Propagate by dividing clumps into smaller sections with part of the root system using a sharp tool. Replant in well-drained soil and water until established for optimal growth.

Repotting: Ideal for beginners, society garlic is a clumping, fragrant perennial. Repot every 2-3 years in spring using a larger container. Utilize well-draining soil, water carefully post-repotting to reduce root stress, and apply organic fertilizer for enhanced blooms and foliage.

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