How to Grow Blandfordia
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Blandfordia
Blandfordia grandiflora
flowerBlandfordia, commonly known as Christmas bells, is a striking Australian native perennial bulb with tubular, bell-shaped flowers that typically bloom in shades of red, orange, and yellow. The plant produces tall flower spikes from clumps of narrow, sword-like foliage and is prized for its exotic appearance and long flowering season. It is relatively uncommon in cultivation outside Australia but is gaining popularity among specialty gardeners.
When should you plant Blandfordia in your zone?
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Example Blandfordia timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Blandfordia
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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First Blandfordia blooms
Mid-to-late summerBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
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Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 9-11; can be grown in cooler zones in containers moved indoors during winter
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Get my Blandfordia timeline →Growth Stages
Dormancy
3-4 monthsBulbs remain mostly inactive underground, with minimal root development. Foliage may die back completely in cooler regions.
Keep soil relatively dry; minimal water; store in cool location if grown in containers; protect from frost
Vegetative Growth
6-10 weeksRobust clump of sword-like foliage develops; plant builds energy reserves. Tall flower spikes begin to form within the foliage.
Maintain consistent moderate moisture; apply balanced fertilizer monthly; ensure full sun exposure; no pruning needed
Flowering
6-10 weeksTall spikes (up to 3-4 feet) emerge with tubular bell-shaped flowers in shades of red, orange, and yellow; flowers open progressively from bottom to top.
Maintain moderate watering; avoid overhead watering to prevent flower damage; stake if needed in windy locations; remove spent flowers below open blooms
Post-Flowering & Seed Set
4-6 weeksFlowers fade; seed pods develop if flowers are not removed. Foliage gradually declines as plant enters dormancy.
Reduce watering gradually; allow foliage to die back naturally to feed bulb; remove dead leaves; allow seeds to mature if desired for propagation
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Ensure excellent drainage and air circulation; remove infected bulbs; treat with horticultural oil if needed
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and
Remove by hand; use copper barriers; maintain dry surface conditions; apply organic slug bait if necessary
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Increase humidity slightly; spray with water; apply horticultural oil or insecticidal soap in severe cases
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Inspect bulbs before planting; remove soft or damaged bulbs; ensure proper drainage to prevent rot that attracts flies
Uses
Not typically edible
CulinaryBlandfordia is not consumed as food or used in culinary applications. The bulb and all plant parts are not recommended for consumption. [source]
Cut flowers and floral arrangements
HouseholdBlandfordia is prized by florists and flower arrangers for its exotic, long-lasting tubular flowers. The tall spikes add dramatic height and tropical elegance to arrangements and are popular in contemporary floral design. [source]
Pollinator attraction
WildlifeThe tubular red and orange flowers attract native Australian bees, honeyeaters, and other pollinating birds. Growing Blandfordia supports local pollinator populations in appropriate climates. [source]
Dried flower arrangements
CraftSeed pods can be dried for decorative purposes. The dried architectural spikes and pods are useful in dried flower arrangements, wreaths, and craft projects. [source]
Traditional Aboriginal use
MedicinalIndigenous Australian cultures have traditional knowledge of native plants; however, Blandfordia is not widely documented in contemporary herbal medicine and should not be used medicinally without expert guidance. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Cut flower spikes for arrangements when the first 2-3 flowers are fully open; cut just above the foliage line. Flowers will continue opening as they vase. Blandfordia makes an excellent long-lasting cut flower lasting 2-3 weeks in water. Leave some spikes on the plant if seed collection is desired; allow seed pods to fully mature and dry before harvesting.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Blandfordia grandiflora is endemic to coastal regions of northeastern Australia (Queensland and northern New South Wales) and has been used in traditional Aboriginal gardens for generations.
- 🌱 The common name 'Christmas bells' refers to the plant's bloom time in the Southern Hemisphere, typically around the Christmas season (December), when the tubular flowers resemble festive bells.
- 🌱 Blandfordia flowers are specifically adapted for bird pollination, with their tubular shape and vibrant colors attracting native honeyeaters and lorikeets that probe inside for nectar.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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