Lady's Hand
Cyanella hyacinthoides
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Pl. FE61 — Cyanella hyacinthoides
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IOverview
Overview
Lady's Hand, scientifically known as Cyanella hyacinthoides, is a small perennial plant native to the Cape Provinces of South Africa. This plant thrives in full sun and can tolerate both dry and moist conditions, making it adaptable to various environments within its range. It prefers light (sandy) soil and grows to a height of about 0.3 meters. Lady's Hand is known for its edible roots, which are often utilized in local cuisine. Its distinctive feature lies in its attractive, hyacinth-like flowers that add ornamental value to gardens while also serving as a valuable food source.
Quick answers
What is Lady's Hand?
Lady's Hand, scientifically known as Cyanella hyacinthoides, is a small perennial plant native to the Cape Provinces of South Africa. This plant thrives in full sun and can tolerate both dry and moist conditions, making it adaptable to various environments within its range.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Lady's Hand thrives in full sun and prefers light, sandy soils that are either dry or moist. It is hardy in temperate regions with a range of 8-11 on the USDA Hardiness Zone scale. The plant grows to about 0.3 meters tall and its edible roots can be harvested for use. Propagate through root division in spring or from seeds sown directly into the garden bed. Ensure proper drainage as overwatering can lead to root rot.
Light
Full sun
Water
Dry, Moist
Soil
Light (sandy)
Hardiness
8-11
Mature size
0.3 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Lady's Hand for the first time
8steps
Start with Lady's Hand by ensuring you have the right conditions and care, making it a manageable project for beginners.
- 1
What you'll need
A small pot or garden bed, seeds or young plants, well-draining soil.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant Lady's Hand in spring when the weather starts warming up.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use a light, sandy soil. Ensure containers have drainage holes.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow seeds 0.5 cm deep or transplant young plants into well-prepared soil.
- 5
First two weeks
Water gently but thoroughly to settle the soil around the roots and keep it moist until germination.
- 6
Ongoing care
Place in full sun, water sparingly as Lady's Hand prefers dry conditions. Fertilize lightly if needed.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune after flowering to encourage new growth and maintain the plant’s shape.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy soil, not providing enough sunlight.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Root
Edible uses: The root of Lady's Hand (Cyanella hyacinthoides) is edible and can be prepared in various ways. It is often used raw or cooked, adding a unique flavor to dishes. The plant thrives in full sun and dry to moist conditions, making it adaptable for cultivation in suitable environments.
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
1 native · 1 introduced
Distribution
1 native · 1 introducedDistribution across0 continents· 1 native· 1 introduced
Broader regions
native:Cape Provinces
introduced:Western Australia
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
Explore further
Companion planting
Growing zone
XII
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