Slime Lily
Albuca amboensisfam. Asparagaceae
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Pl. 02AB — Albuca amboensis
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IOverview
Overview
Slime Lily (Albuca amboensis) is a member of the Asparagaceae family and thrives in the arid regions of Botswana and Namibia. Known for its edible leaves and roots, this plant can be found growing in full sun with varying soil conditions—ranging from light sandy to medium soils. It prefers dry to moist environments, making it adaptable to different habitats within its native range. One distinctive feature is its ability to store water in its fleshy leaves, while another notable characteristic is the milky sap that oozes when the plant is cut or damaged, giving rise to its common name.
Quick answers
What is Slime Lily?
Slime Lily (Albuca amboensis) is a member of the Asparagaceae family and thrives in the arid regions of Botswana and Namibia. Known for its edible leaves and roots, this plant can be found growing in full sun with varying soil conditions—ranging from light sandy to medium soils.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Slime Lily thrives in full sun and prefers a well-draining soil that is either light (sandy) or medium. It requires dry to moist conditions, making it adaptable to various watering needs. The plant is hardy in temperate regions but can be sensitive to overwatering. For propagation, divide the rootstock or use leaf cuttings. Harvest edible parts from leaves and roots as needed.
Light
Full sun
Water
Dry, Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium
For first-time growers
How to grow Slime Lily for the first time
8steps
Start with Slime Lily as a simple, low-maintenance addition to your garden.
- 1
What you'll need
Albuca amboensis bulbs or seeds, potting soil, containers, and water.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring when the weather starts warming up.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use a well-draining mix of light (sandy) soil. Containers should have drainage holes.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Plant bulbs 2-3 inches deep in the soil, spacing them about 6 inches apart.
- 5
First two weeks
Water sparingly to avoid rotting the bulb. Keep it in a sunny spot.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full sun and water only when the soil is dry. Fertilize lightly once a year.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune dead leaves to maintain plant health, but do not harvest roots or leaves for eating.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy soil, and neglecting sun exposure are common pitfalls.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:LeavesRoot
Edible uses: The Slime Lily (Albuca amboensis) is edible and its leaves and roots can be consumed. The leaves are typically eaten raw in salads or cooked as a vegetable. Roots are often boiled before consumption. Both parts add a mild flavor to dishes.
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
2 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
2 native · 0 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 2 native
Africa2 regions
native (2)BotswanaNamibia
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
8 related
See also
8 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family (Asparagaceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Asparagaceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
XI
Explore further
Companion planting
Compare with similar plants
XII
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