Leucocoryne

Leucocoryne (glory-of-the-sun) is a genus of bulbous perennials in the family Amaryllidaceae.[2]

The foliage of all species is long and narrow and has an onion-like scent. The blue, white or lilac flowers are held in umbels.[3]

The entire genus is endemic to the Republic of Chile in South America.[1]

Some species are grown in gardens as ornamentals. They require very well-drained soil and do not tolerate freezing temperatures. L. purpurea, with purple flowers, has gained the Royal Horticultural Society’s Award of Garden Merit.[4][5]

The generic name Leucocoryne is a compound of the Greek elements λευκός ( = leucos ) “white” and κορυνε ( = korune ) “club” ( in the sense of cudgel or bludgeon ) – in reference to the pale, club-like, sterile anthers of the flowers.[6][7]