Needleleaf Combflower Fynbos Bulb | Micanthus | 3 Bulbs

Micranthus, commonly known as the Needleleaf Cormbflower, is a charming and hardy bulbous perennial belonging to the iris family (Iridaceae). Native to the sandstone slopes and damp sandy flats of the Western Cape fynbos region, its genus name stems from the Greek words mikros (small) and anthos (flower), referring to its dainty blossoms.

Celebrated for its unique, flattened fan of narrow foliage and slender flower spikes, this species produces distinctive blue flowers during spring and early summer. When planted in dense drifts or tight clusters, it creates an eye-catching, airy seasonal display that brings incredible natural character to indigenous and fynbos gardens.

Growing Conditions & Care

Light
Prefers full sun to light, dappled shade. Requires a bright, open position to produce strong flower stems and maintain rich petal coloration.

Watering
Water regularly and moderately during its active winter and spring growing season. Keep soil moist during growth and allow bulbs to stay dry during summer dormancy.

Soil
Requires gritty, acidic to neutral, well-draining sandy soil mix typical of natural fynbos habitats. Unsuited to heavy, waterlogged clay soils.

Temperature and Climate
Hardy and well-adapted to Western Cape winter-rainfall climate conditions. Tolerates mild winter chills and summer heat during dormancy.

Growth Habit and Mature Size
Compact, erect bulbous geophyte. Flower stems reach a mature height of approximately 20cm with a clumping spread.

Maintenance
Extremely low maintenance. Plant bulbs in autumn in clustered drifts, allow leaves to wither naturally after flowering, and leave bulbs undisturbed in garden beds or containers.

Best Uses

Rockery pockets, gravel garden beds, and fynbos borders

Terracotta pots, window boxes, and shallow patio containers

Indigenous collector gardens and massed drift plantings

Water-wise native plant displays.