Climbing Onion (Bowiea volubilis): The Curious, Leafless Succulent Vine

Climbing onion, or sea onion, is a bizarre succulent with a large, above-ground, pale green bulb (the "onion") from which emerge leafless, twining, photosynthetic stems that climb like vines. Small, greenish-white flowers appear on the stems. Native to South Africa, Bowiea volubilis is a collector's curiosity.

Cultivation

Bright, indirect light. Well-drained cactus mix. Water sparingly when actively growing; keep dry during dormancy (when stems die back). The bulb stores water. Provide a small trellis for the stems. It's slow-growing and long-lived.

Interesting Traits

The bulb can reach 8 inches diameter. The stems are the photosynthetic organs—no true leaves. All parts are toxic (cardiac glycosides). Handle with care.

Taxonomic Profile