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Crinum Calamistratum (Crinum calamistratum)

Crinum calamistratum is a bulb plant that sends up long, narrow, deeply crinkled dark-green leaves that twist and sway like ribbons, making a striking low-tech centerpiece. It is hardy and undemanding — no CO2 needed and low light is fine — but it grows slowly and dislikes being moved, so plant the bulb once with root tabs nearby and leave it to settle in for the long term.

Care specifications

TypeBulb
DifficultyEasy
LightLow (15–40 µmol PAR)
CO2Not needed
Fertilizer demandMedium
Growth rateSlow
Max height24 in
Spread8 in
PlacementMidground, Background
Attaches to hardscapeNo
Snail & shrimp safeYes
Temperature72–82 °F
pH6–7.5
ColorGreen
TrimmingMinimal
StylesJungle, Nature, Biotope

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Crinum Calamistratum

Crinum Calamistratum

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Propagation

Mature bulbs slowly produce offset bulblets at the base; separate these once they have their own roots and leaves.

Frequently asked questions

How deep do I plant a Crinum calamistratum bulb?

Bury the roots and the lower portion of the bulb in the substrate but leave the top third or so of the bulb exposed — fully buried bulbs are prone to rot. Once it establishes roots it anchors firmly; place it where you want it permanently, since it resents being uprooted.

Why is my Crinum growing so slowly or losing a leaf after planting?

Crinums are naturally slow and often sulk for a while after a move, sometimes dropping a leaf as they adjust. Don't dig the bulb up to check it — keep it planted, feed the roots with tabs, and be patient; an established Crinum is long-lived and steadily pushes out new ribbon leaves.

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