This striking bulbous species can be found in the Mountains House.
A member of the onion family (Alliaceae), Nothoscordum dialystemon originates from north-eastern Argentina and Uruguay, where it grows in dry, sandy soils in full sun. In cultivation it grows best in a pot with winter protection, though it will grow in a dry, sunny, well-drained spot in the open garden. The brilliant yellow flowers reach approximately 10cm in height, and are distinct in having a contrasting dark stripe which runs the length of the outer tepals. With sun and warmth the flowers will open to produce a fragrant, star-shaped bloom. It is an unusual member of the genus in having eight rather than six tepals. First introduced into cultivation in 1981 as Beauverdia sellowiana by Dr Rolf Fiedler from Patagonia, this species is synonymous with Ipheion sellowiana.