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IIIFolio · plant profile№ 5487edible
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Lady's Hand

Cyanella amboensis
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Cyanella amboensis (Lady's Hand) — botanical photograph
Pl. 5487 — Cyanella amboensis
Cyanella amboensisCyanella amboensisCyanella amboensisCyanella amboensisCyanella amboensisCyanella amboensisCyanella amboensisCyanella amboensisCyanella amboensisCyanella amboensisCyanella amboensisCyanella amboensisCyanella amboensisCyanella amboensis
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Overview

Lady's Hand, scientifically known as Cyanella amboensis, is a member of the Amaryllidaceae family and is native to Angola and Namibia. This plant thrives in full sun and prefers moist, light (sandy) soil, making it adaptable to arid and semi-arid regions. The roots of Lady's Hand are edible and can be prepared in various ways, often being cooked or dried for later use. While the roots are edible, raw consumption is not recommended due to potential lack of palatability or ease of digestion. This plant is notable for its ornamental value and culinary versatility, making it a noteworthy species in southern Africa. Its adaptability and hardiness in temperate regions make Lady's Hand a valuable addition to landscapes and gardens.

Quick answers

What is Lady's Hand?

Lady's Hand, scientifically known as Cyanella amboensis, is a member of the Amaryllidaceae family and is native to Angola and Namibia. This plant thrives in full sun and prefers moist, light (sandy) soil, making it adaptable to arid and semi-arid regions.

Growingconditions · propagation · uses
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Cultivation

Lady's Hand (Cyanella amboensis) thrives in full sun and requires moist, light (sandy) soil. The plant is hardy in temperate regions and is native to Angola and Namibia. For cultivation, ensure the soil is well-draining and keep it consistently moist. Roots are the edible part, making this plant suitable for those interested in foraging or gardening. Propagate through root cuttings or division in the spring.
Light
Full sun
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy)
For first-time growers

How to grow Lady's Hand for the first time

8steps

Start with Lady's Hand by planting it in a sunny spot and keeping the soil moist. This guide will help you through your first steps.

  1. 1

    What you'll need

    Seeds or young plants, a container or garden bed, potting mix suitable for light soils.

  2. 2

    Best time to plant

    Plant Lady's Hand in spring when the weather starts warming up.

  3. 3

    Soil and container prep

    Use a light soil mix that drains well. Ensure your container has drainage holes if you're planting it indoors.

  4. 4

    Sowing or transplanting

    Direct sow seeds outdoors once the danger of frost is past, or start them indoors 4-6 weeks before the last expected frost date.

  5. 5

    First two weeks

    Keep the soil consistently moist. Place a mulch layer around the plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

  6. 6

    Ongoing care

    Water regularly, especially during dry spells. Ensure full sun exposure for best growth.

  7. 7

    Harvest or pruning

    Prune lightly in spring to encourage new growth and remove any dead foliage.

  8. 8

    Common mistakes

    Overwatering, planting in heavy soil, not providing enough sunlight.

VI

Edible & utility

Edible parts:Root
Edible uses: The root of Lady's Hand (Cyanella amboensis) is edible and can be prepared in various ways. It is often cooked or dried for later use. Skip the raw consumption as it may not be palatable or easily digestible.
Contextrange · companions · related
VII

Distribution

3 native · 1 introduced
Distribution across1 continent· 3 native· 1 introduced
Africa2 regions
native (2)AngolaNamibia
Broader regions
native:Cape Provinces
introduced:Western Australia
IX

Specimen gallery

1 image
Cyanella amboensis (Lady's Hand) — botanical photograph
Lady's Hand (Cyanella amboensis)
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Explore further

Companion planting
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