Some tender summer bulbs can be planted directly into the garden, though many will fare better if placed in simple plastic nursery pots or flats and allowed to root in a sunny, warm room or greenhouse for about a month before the transplant date. This will help them come up and flower earlier and more reliably. Also, pots can make ideal permanent homes for summer bulbs. I keep many in pots, since groups of pots can be rearranged for effect. Then cut down wilted foliage.
Profusion is a southern African native with nodding blooms streaked with dark blue.
Good bets are the popular Miss Muffet, with its radiant, speckled markings, and the brilliant Red Flash. These are excellent for shady areas. These Victorian classics are beloved for their flowers as well as their spectacular foliage.