Asian Poison Bulb
Crinum asiaticum
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Pl. A0BE — Crinum asiaticum
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IOverview
Overview
Asian Poison Bulb, scientifically known as Crinum asiaticum, is a hardy perennial that thrives in moist environments with light to medium soil types. Native to Southeast Asia and the Pacific Islands, it can be found across a wide range including India, China, and various islands such as Fiji and Vanuatu. This plant is valued for its edible bulb, which can be consumed after proper preparation. Standing at about 1.2 meters tall, Asian Poison Bulb features large, white or pinkish-white flowers that make it an ornamental addition to gardens. Its adaptability to full sun and various soil conditions makes it a versatile choice for gardeners in suitable climates.
Quick answers
What is Asian Poison Bulb?
Asian Poison Bulb, scientifically known as Crinum asiaticum, is a hardy perennial that thrives in moist environments with light to medium soil types. Native to Southeast Asia and the Pacific Islands, it can be found across a wide range including India, China, and various islands such as Fiji and Vanuatu.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Asian Poison Bulb thrives in full sun and prefers moist soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is hardy in zones 7-10 and grows to a height of 1.2 meters. This forb/herb requires regular watering but can tolerate various soil types. For propagation, gardeners may divide the bulb. Edible parts include the bulb, making this plant both ornamental and useful for culinary purposes.
Light
Full sun
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
7-10
Habit
Forb/herb
Mature size
1.2 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Asian Poison Bulb for the first time
8steps
Start with planting Asian Poison Bulb in a sunny spot and follow these simple steps for success.
- 1
What you'll need
A healthy Crinum asiaticum bulb, well-draining soil, and a container or garden bed.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring when the weather starts warming up.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Ensure the soil is light (sandy), medium, or heavy with good drainage. Amend as needed for your local conditions.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Plant the bulb 10-20 cm deep in the center of a hole and cover it with soil.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full sun exposure and regular watering during dry spells. Fertilize lightly in spring with a balanced fertilizer.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune dead leaves and spent flowers to maintain the plant's appearance, but do not harvest for eating as it is not commonly done.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting too deep, neglecting to prune, and using unsuitable soil types are common pitfalls beginners should avoid.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Bulb
Edible uses: The Asian Poison Bulb (Crinum asiaticum) is edible and its bulb can be consumed. Typically, the bulb is prepared by cooking it before eating. Skip raw consumption due to potential toxicity.
Other uses:Fragrance
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
30 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
30 native · 0 introducedDistribution across3 continents· 30 native
Asia10 regions
native (10)BangladeshCambodiaChinaIndiaJapanLaosMaldivesMyanmarPhilippinesSouth Korea
Africa1 region
native (1)Mauritius
Oceania2 regions
native (2)FijiNew Caledonia
Broader regions
native:Ogasawara-shoto, Norfolk Is., Northern Territory, Bismarck Archipelago, Borneo, Christmas I., Cocos (Keeling) Is., Gilbert Is., Jawa, Malaya, Maluku, Nansei-shoto, New Guinea, New South Wales, Nicobar Is., Queensland
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
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Growing zone
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