Cyanella hyacinthoides

Description

Cyanella hyacinthoides is a species of cormous annual or perennial herb native to South Africa. It has a much-branched stem up to 40 centimetres high, with flowers in white, pink, purple or blue. It is native to the Cape region of South Africa, especially the renosterveld, where it grows on clay and granite slopes. It is also reportedly naturalised in Western Australia. Common names include lady's hand. The bulb is edible once cooked, and is said to serve as an onion substitute. It tolerates drought but is vulnerable to frost.