Stellenbosch University Botanical Garden, South Africa

Common name: Bontviooltjie

Family: Asparagaceae (Asparagus)

Distribution: Northern Cape, Western Cape

Habitat: Deep sands or stony slopes

IUCN Red list: Least concern

National red list: Least Concern

Life form: Geophyte (bulb, corm or tuber - seasonally dormant)

Comments: This species is widespread in the greater Cape Floristic Region and occurs both in the Fynbos and Succulent Karoo biomes. It is very variable in terms of size and colour of its flowers - in fact, the specific epithet "mutabilis" refers to this variation. Its flowers, like many other Lachenalias, are pollinated by honeybees. The species is not considered threatened as it is still widespread and common.