L. socialis is native to the arid savanna in summer-rainfall regions of eastern S Africa and is probably the most popular bulb among succulent collections. Its above-ground bulbs are clothed in peeling, papery tunics that prevent water loss. Thus, the plants survive drought as effectively as any succulent. ‘Miner’ is a dwarf selection about half the normal size and has particularly silvery, finely spotted leaves. Divisions of HBG 73608, a plant obtained from M. Vassar as L. socialis ‘Minor’, which had it ever been published would be an invalid Latinized cultivar name. The new name is a homonym alluding both to the plant’s dwarf stature and the horticultural process of selection in search of worthy cultivars. $10.
Published in the Cactus and Succulent Journal, Vol. 76 (2), March - April, 2004