Written by: Sarah Braude
2025
As part of nature’s well-timed rhythm, the Strandviooltjie (Lachenalia punctata) is a beautiful sign that winter is on its way. The Strandviooltjie is a bulbous plant which is dormant during the summer months. They burst into colour in autumn with a flower stalk with magenta leaves.
The tubular-shaped flowers are coral to red with darker tips, and they are usually found as solitary individuals or in small groups within larger colonies. The month of May marks their peak flowering season. However, you will need to be observant as the Strandviooltjie only grow to a maximum of 25cm in height!
Did you know that their longer tubular flowers are adapted for pollination by the Sunbirds - who probe the floral tube with their long beaks to extract the nectar therein?
To raise awareness in our community about protecting and respecting the Strandveld biodiversity, we regularly share news and sightings in our newsletters.
