Adenophora and Romulea.
It is both frightening and humbling this medium.
Knowing the "world" is watching and taking note of what is said.
Unlike some other online meeting places it is most gratifying to see the friendly way folk inter-react here.
I am perhaps fortunate that the part of the world I live in allows me to grow outdoors with a comparative ease; without the "need" for the very close attention required in regions with servere cold or flooding Summer rains.
The remarkable benefits to be gained I am finding is that people from all parts of the world, from all climates, who have to contend with all sorts of different soils and other conditions; can trade information and experiences relevant to their own areas. Through this trade in information (joyously given) we can all learn new methods to "trial and evaluate." Then, with needs to our own micro-climate fine-tune our Bulb and alpine growing to suit our local situations and circumstances.
Given that we all like the rewards of flowering, might I suggest the following plants for folks wishing to expand their gardening interests.
Romuleas: The genus Romulea is a member of the Iridaceae family. From seed they are quick to flower. Romulea is mainly confined to Africa and to countries around the Mediterranean Sea. I personally prefer the ones from South Africa. In South Africa especially in the South West Cape Province, the diversity and specialised features of these many coloured flowering corms; come into their own. The flower colour range of the South African Species isn't matched by the Northern Hemisphere, plants. These plants have evolved in habitat, which is passed onto the gardener; the ability to survive the dry summer season. The tunicated corm lies dormant, protected by its evolution. At the beginning of their season; generally they are winter growers, so their season begins in the garden of the reader in Fall ( autumn ). From the rootstock of the corm comes one to several thread like cylindrical, narrow leaves, which are usually borne in an erect position. The inflorescence consists of funnel shaped flowers or bell shaped flowers. The range of colours start with pure white, going through the colour spectrum; yellow, orange, pink, red, blue and mauve. This genus is not known to be attacked by any serious pests, which is always a plus. This said, should anyone know of pests afflicting Romuleas, please start a discussion on this article; for I am not aware of any 'beasties' for this Genus, and would be interested in knowing from you all, should you strike pests when growing these.
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