Bowkeria. citrina is fairly slow growing, about 400 mm a year and flowering begins in the second year. It is an excellent subject for small gardens as it grows to about 3 x 2 m. In spite of its rarity, the species can be sourced from some nurseries. Good companion plants are low-growing shrubs such as Gnidia triplinervis and Plectranthus zuluensis, as well as water feature plants such as Dietes bicolor, Gunnera perpensa and Zantedeschia aethiopica.

Plant in full sun, and compost and water well in the first few years. It grows best in high rainfall areas and cannot survive drought, so will need supplementary watering in very dry periods. It is frost hardy, and will not do well in hot, humid areas.

This species is particularly attractive when grown near a water feature, but also makes an impact when planted in groups.

Bowkeria citrina can be propagated from seed or cuttings.

Collect fruit in autumn just before maturity and keep in a paper bag to catch the fine seed, which can be stored in the fridge until the following spring. Seed germinates easily, but sow sparingly in a well-drained medium and place in a ventilated position to avoid fungal infection. Seedlings can be transplanted as soon as they are strong enough.

New green shoots or semi-hardwood cuttings about 100 mm long, treated with rooting hormone, usually strike well in a mist bed.