The scented African hyacinth is very easily cultivated in gardens, although is better suited to containers because of its small size. They are best cultivated in terracotta pots in full sun to semi-shade, in a warm climate. The bulbs should be planted in humus-rich loam or a well-drained, organic potting medium, with sifted kraal (cattle) manure or well-aged compost added. Watering should be done regularly during the summer growing season. The pots should be dried out during the dry winter rest period. They prefer a warm growing season, but can withstand very cold temperatures in winter, provided the soil is kept completely dry and the plants are dormant. During the dry winter dormancy period, the pots should be moved out of the rain and placed in a dry, cool area with good air movement. Watering can commence at the onset of warmer weather (August to September). Keeping the plants in strong sunlight, results in the darkest and most bold leaf markings, which quickly fade in the shade.

Propagation from seed is the best method of producing new plants. Seed must be sown fresh (cannot be stored) in spring or summer, in deep seed trays filled with the sifted potting mixture detailed above. The seed can be sown on a firmly tamped surface and lightly covered with the same mixture, approximately 2–4 mm deep. The seed trays should be kept in a bright, warm position out of direct sunlight and kept damp for between 2 to 3 weeks, until germination has commenced. Once the seedlings have emerged, watering can be reduced. The seedlings can be pricked out into community pots or individual containers after their first year. Repotting should be done shortly before the onset of warmer temperatures. Flowering size bulbs can be attained after 2 to 3 years.