This species, along with other ledebourias, is easily grown from seed and relatively quick growing; seedlings can reach full adult size in as little as three to four years.

Sow the seed in spring in a deep seed tray using a mixture of standard seedling mixture or sifted potting soil mixed with equal parts double washed and sifted river sand. Sow seed fresh (up to 1 year old) and cover with approximately 5 mm of the sifted mixture. Keep moist in a warm shaded position with adequate light until seedlings have germinated which may take two to four weeks, after which watering can be reduced slightly to reduce the chances of damping off.

Once seedlings are large enough to handle they can be transplanted into small pots or they can be left in the seed tray until the following spring before transplanting just as they begin to show signs of sprouting. Sub-adult plants can be planted out into the ground after they are about two years old. Plant in a well-drained sunny position and once established can be watered sparingly.

Ledebouria zebrina can be used to good effect in a succulent rockery where it can be planted between rocks or at the base of larger succulents such as aloes. The large bulb allows the species to withstand prolonged drought and ideally should be kept completely dry in winter.

If grown under ideal conditions the species is usually pest free. Occasionally they may get mealy bug in the crown and under the folds of the leaves, this is easily controlled by cleaning with an old toothbrush dipped in 10% methylated spirits mixed with water or by simply washing off with a hosepipe. The caterpillar of the cherry spot moth (Diaphone eumela) will on occasion eat the flowers or leaves. They are not usually a problem as they don't attack in great numbers and can often be left alone or simply removed by hand. The damage they do is inconsequential as they are not recorded to tunnel down into the bulb.

Acknowledgements

Dr Neil Crouch is thanked for assistance on ethnobotanical information.