General Description/History

Sandersonia has only one species in the genus, and it was first grown as a cut flower in NZ, where an active hybridization program is continuing. At the moment flowers are all orange to orange-yellow, but it is hoped pink and white forms will be released soon. Flowers are shaped exactly like orange Chinese lanterns and are borne up each branch with the lower flowers opening first. Leaves are glossy green and pointed.

Sandersonia is grown in glasshouses or polyhouses. Supplies come mostly from Victoria, Qld and NSW.

What to look for

• Buy when 1/3 to ½ of the bells on each branch are fully open;
• If possible buy bunches with the stem ends in sachets full of water;
• Avoid bunches with wilted tips, and yellow leaves.

Flower Care

1. Keep cool at all times.
2. Strip leaves from the lower half of each stem.
3. Recut at least 2 cm off each stem and place in water immediately.
4. Do not bash or split stems.
5. Always use a preservative as this will help buds to open.
6. Replace vase water with fresh preservative every day.

Interesting Facts about this Flower

Called ‘Christmas Bells’ in South Africa.

Botanical Name: Sandersonia aurantiaca

Common Names: Golden Bells, Golden Lantern Lily

Stem Length: 30 to 80 cm

Country of Origin: South Africa

Available Colours: Orange, Yellow

Season: Summer,Spring

Availability: January,February,September,October,November,Decemeber