Tupistra nutans
Tupistra nutans is an unusual rhizomatous geophyte from the eastern Himalayas with long strap-like leaves up to a metre in length that forms a tall lush clump of evergreen foliage resembling a curious Aspidistra or ginger. It has an interesting club-like flower that brings to mind somewhat the equally curious flower of Molineria crassifolia but is larger. These are eaten in Sikkim as a spicy vegetable.
Tupistra nutans is not really hardy in the UK and even under winter glass it will require fleecing in most areas. In summer it can be planted out in a jungle setting in a warm sheltered aspect where it will benefit from a moist humus-rich soil and partial shade. Although not an attention-seeking or overly-dramatic plant, Tupistra nutans is one that will elicit admiration and envy from your plant-literate friends who will surely notice such an unusual yet subtle addition to the jungle. Can be brought inside as a houseplant during the winter.
Rare and highly recommended.
Additional Information
| Order | Asparagales |
|---|---|
| Family | Asparagaceae |
| Sub-Family | Nolinoideae |
| Synonyms | Rohdea nutans, Tupistra clarkei |
| Geographical Origin | India: Assam; Bangladesh |
| Cultivation | Warm sheltered aspect. Shade or partial shade. Humus-rich soil that is moist and gives off humidity in the heat of the day |
| Eventual Height | 1m |
| Eventual Spread | 30cm |
| Hardiness | Tender in the UK in all locations except perhaps the Scilly Isles and the Channel Islands. Bring indoors under glass in October and protect with fleece if in an unheated environment. Or as a houseplant in winter |
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