Family: Iridaceae

Native to South Africa, this genus comprises about three species of corms, similar to gladiolus, except that the flower stem ends in a spike of long, hooded tubes with spreading lobes. They can be found in colours from yellow through to red and have sword-shaped leaves. Chasmanthe can flower in the spring or summer.

Species

C. aethiopica generally grows to less than 1 m (3 ft), with slender, red-yellow, tube-like flowers with maroon throats. C. floribunda, the most popular garden species, has broader leaves and produces similar, but more abundant, flowers in orange-red or yellow. It can grow to 1.5 m (5 ft) in good conditions.

Cultivation

These plants tolerate most soils as long as they are well drained. They can be grown in full sun or part shade. Cut off any old foliage as fresh growth begins in spring. Propagate by division of clumps in spring.

Climate

Zone 9.