orchids aloe companion plants

There are many plants that can grow happy in the same conditions as the aloes in the garden. Here are photos of two lilies Ammaryllis belladonna and Haemanthus coccinius as well as an orchid Eulophia petersii.

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This orchid Eulophia petersii which grows widespread in eastern Africa is very happy in the aloe garden. The relative small flowers are charming with the curling petals.

My mother got these orchids from a Fauna&Flora rescue expedition where a road would be built Natal. I did not take any plants as I always thought they would be difficult until about three years ago when I decided to give them a try.

The orchids bloomed in our garden for the first time December 2006, the same month my mother died. I spent 2 weeks with her and then 2-3 days after I returned I found the orchids hidden under the tree in full bloom. The first thing I thought was I have to phone Mom and tell her ... then I realized I can not phone her anymore.

The inflorescens was nearly 2 metres high and the flowering lasted just over 2 months. There are 3 seedpods ! I have no idea what to do with them.

The lilies are always welcome. I do not need to remove any of them. Each year they show up by themselves to brag a little with their pretty flowers.

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Ammaryllis belladonna the endemic lily of this very popular genus. It blooms in March and is known by the name Marchlily, which is a pity as what could be prettier than Belladonna.

The smaller bright red Haemanthus coccinius (just behind the March lilies) is starting to open too.

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Haemanthus coccinius. It is a month early for this lily but it might be the heavy rain shower we had in February that confused the lily. The flower is not fully open and smaller than it should be, but it is welcome all the same.

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