Hi Garrick, seeing that this post is still sitting here at the top, I would add that it is usually spelled koekemakranka or koekmakranka, according to the "Handboek vir Afrikaanse Taal" The description states that it is grown in the winter rainfall areas, and that the fruit is partially underground, and fragrant. I never had a chance to taste it while I lived in SA, have you had the opportunity yourself?
I seem to recall that the Koi and San people used koekemakrankas as a source of hydration in the absence of water ... or am I confusing it with another plant?

I only have a couple of these SA bulbs. What is the mature size of the bulbs and the fruit? I'm under the impression that the bulbs are very small, so even if the fruit is large in comparison it seems that it would take a LOT of fruit to make any kind of product. Wouldn't this be to the detriment of the population? Please enlighten a neophyte!

I'm busy with a project in Kimberley at an archeological site. Our idea is to make a garden with all the plants descibed and used in the recipe book "Koekemakranka". Where can I get a list of these plants and where can I buy them. It is urgent as we want to start the planting in a week from now. It will be thw 21st February 2011. Can you perhaps give me details?

Hi Iam very interested in the medicinal value of this plant. Could you please advise me where I might purchase a bulb or two.
Thanks Rose

Resurrecting this thread/has gethyllis proved to be a challenge as a greenhouse plant? I'm considering buying a bulb of g.spiralis, wondering if I'm throwing away my money?

What has your personal experience been?

Thanks,

--Rick in CT