This species is difficult to maintain in cultivation, it typically grows and flowers for a few years but becomes weaker and weaker until it disappears.

The bulbs prefer a humic-rich, peaty loam potting soil with sand added to provide a moist, acidic, well-drained base. They should be kept in morning sun to semi-shade and watered generously between rain showers in the summer growing season; water quality may play and important role. During the dormant period in winter, the containers should be allowed to dry out, with only an occasional light surface watering to maintain some soil humidity. The emergence of the flowers in spring usually coincides with the emergence of the leaves, at which time full watering can recommence.

Propagation of this species is most successful from fresh seed, sown in summer. Seed can be sown directly into pots or trays filled with the sifted growing mixture and pressed lightly. The seed can be covered with a thin, 3 mm, layer of fine sand or the same sifted potting mix. Germination is quick and can occur between 3-4 weeks. Seedlings can be left in their natal containers for up to 3 years or until they become too congested and then should be planted out in small clusters or as individuals into pots. Seedlings are susceptible to mealy bug below soil level, which can be treated using a systemic insecticide; damping off can occur during early establishment of the seedlings and precautions should be implemented in the form of a systemic fungicide.