Schizobasis Intricata (Drimia Intricata) Seeds aka Climbing Onion

Schizobasis Intricata is a truly unique and unusual bulbous plant prized by collectors for its delicate, wiry stems and architectural growth habit. Often called the Climbing Onion, this plant produces a small exposed bulb from which thin, twisting green stems emerge, creating an airy, sculptural look unlike typical houseplants.

Native to South Africa, Schizobasis Intricata is drought-tolerant and well suited to bright indoor spaces. It thrives in a well-draining soil mix and prefers light, infrequent watering once established. Growth is slow but fascinating, making it an excellent choice for patient growers and rare plant enthusiasts.

This plant goes dormant periodically, during which stems may dry back—this is completely normal. With proper care, new growth will return when conditions are right.

LIGHT | Bright, indirect light to full sun
COLD TOLERANCE | Not frost tolerant; protect below 10°C (50°F)
WATER | Low; water sparingly and allow soil to dry between waterings
SOIL PH | Neutral to slightly acidic (approx. pH 6.0–7.0)
SOIL TYPE | Very well-draining soil; cactus or succulent mix with added grit
FERTILIZER | Light feeding during active growth with diluted balanced fertilizer
PROPAGATION METHODS | Seeds, bulb division
HUMIDITY LEVEL | Low to average household humidity
ACTIVE SEASON | Spring to summer (may vary by growing conditions)
ORIGIN | South Africa

How to Germinate Schizobasis intricata Seeds

1. Growing Medium
Use a well-draining, sterile mix:
• 50% cactus/succulent soil
• 50% perlite or pumice

Lightly moisten the soil before sowing.

2. Sowing the Seeds
• Place seeds on the surface of the soil.
• Do not bury them—light helps with germination.
• Gently press seeds into the surface to ensure contact.

3. Humidity & Cover
• Cover the container with a clear humidity dome or plastic wrap.
• Ensure some airflow to prevent mold.

4. Light
• Bright, indirect light is best.
• Avoid direct sun, which can overheat the container.

5. Temperature
• Ideal germination temperature: 20–25°C (68–77°F)
• Bottom heat can help but is not required.

6. Watering
• Keep soil slightly moist, never soggy.
• Use misting or bottom watering to avoid disturbing seeds.

7. Germination Time
• Germination typically occurs in 2–6 weeks, but can take longer.
• Growth is slow at first—this is normal.

8. After Germination
• Remove humidity cover gradually once seedlings appear.
• Allow soil to dry slightly between watering.
• Seedlings will form a small bulb over time.

Important Notes
• Do not overwater—bulbs are prone to rot.
• This plant is slow-growing and may take several months to show noticeable progress.
• Best suited for patient growers and collectors.