Propagation
Sow fresh seeds in flats at a depth of 14 mm (? in) and cover with a layer of sand to 7 mm (Ľ in) thick and maintain a temperature of 16ş to 18ş C. (61ş to 64ş F).

Prick out and pot up when they are large enough to handle. Germination may take up to 12 months and the seedlings are very slow to grow.


Botanic information
Leaf: The new linear leaves are upright at first becoming pendant with age and are very narrow. In cross section they are quadrangular in shape and the dead leaves form a skirt around the trunk. The leaf colour may be silvery grey and the texture is rigid.

Flower: The tiny stellate flowers are arranged in a spike with floral bracts up to 200mm (8in) long on a short scape that is up to 150mm (6in) tall. The inflorescence has a brownish, stout appearance and is up to 60mm (2Ľin)thick, appearing during late spring.

Fruit: The fruit is a leathery 3-valved loculicidal capsule that contains flat dull black seeds that have endosperm. The seeds are viable but the plant is commonly transplanted as a mature specimen.