A tuberous perennial, to about 45cm tall, with strap-shaped green, veined upright leaves clasping the reddish-brown stems. Terracotta-red orchid or iris-like flowers are produced over a long flowering period in loose clusters from July to October
0.1-0.5 metres
0.1-0.5 metres
| Season | Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spring | ||||
| Summer | ||||
| Autumn | ||||
| Winter |
Grow in humus-rich, moderately fertile, moist but well-drained soil. A cool, sheltered site in partial shade is ideal; in very cold areas apply a deep winter mulch. If growing from a tuber, plant 15cm deep
Propagate by seed in pots in a cold frame as soon as seed is ripe, or by division of tubers in spring
Remove faded flowers, the rest of the plant will die down naturally
May be susceptible to slugs and vine weevils
Generally disease-free