Seeds must be sown in autumn (March), planted in a sifted mixture of soil/sand and compost (50/50), and covered with soil that is equal in depth to the diameter of the seed. It must be planted in a deep seed tray because, as the seedling grows, it will pull itself down. To maximize percentage germination, the seeds can be leached, scarified or soaked. Soil must be kept moist until germination, which will take 6 weeks or longer. During germination, seeds must receive less light intensity, higher temperature and more moisture or relative humidity. Seedlings should not be allowed to dry out. Low concentrated liquid fertilizer can be used every 3 months.

In cold climates, propagation of seeds must be done in a cool greenhouse, because the young plants are susceptible to cold.

Another method of propagation is by corms. After flowering, the plant must not be uprooted or divided until they are in dormancy. Corms must be divided while dormant and replanted in autumn. Cut the stems off the corms and let their necks dry after discarding the old corm. Pick off the baby cormlets that may have formed around the base of the new corm. They can be stored dry in a labelled cardboard box or paper bag over the summer.

The plant thrives in a full sun position, and well-drained, acidic soil. It is not frost hardy. It needs water in autumn, winter and spring, and to be kept dry in summer. It is best suited to a sunny rockery in a winter-rainfall region. It is also suitable for containers.