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BulbsHerbaceous Perennial

Chasmanthe aethiopica

African corn flag

A clump forming cormous perennial with pale-green upright lance-shaped leaves. Bright orangey red flower spikes appear from late spring to early summer. The tubular flowers face the same way along one side of the spike

Other common names
African corn lily
Synonyms
Chasmanthe vittigera
Antholyza aethiopica
see moreAntholyza vittigera
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Size
Ultimate height
0.5–1 metres
Time to ultimate height
2–5 years
Ultimate spread
0.1–0.5 metres
Growing conditions
Chalk
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Moist but well–drained
pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Green
Summer Orange Red Green
Autumn Green
Winter
Position
  • Full sun
  • Partial shade
Aspect

West–facing or South–facing or East–facing

Exposure
Sheltered
Hardiness
H3
Botanical details
Family
Iridaceae
Native to the UK
No
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Columnar upright
Genus

A genus of flowering clump-forming perennials from iris family, endemic to Cape Provinces in South Africa. The plants grow from corms, producing a clump of narrow, lance-shaped leaves. Upright flowering stems carry tubular flowers arranged neatly in two vertical rows

Name status

Correct

Plant range
S Africa (S Cape)

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How to grow

Cultivation

In milder parts of the UK grow in a sunny or semi shade spot, in rich moist but well drainied soil. They can over winter outside in very sheltered gardens with free draining soil. But are best lifted or grown in pots for frost prone gardens

Propagation

Propagate from seed in spring or divide established clumps in spring, discarding old or damaged corms

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • City and courtyard gardens
  • Gravel garden
  • Mediterranean climate plants
  • Patio and container plants
  • Low Maintenance
  • Flower borders and beds
  • Wall side borders
Pruning

Cut back in late winter before the new growth appears

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

Generally disease-free

Get involved

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