Watsonia borbonica

Watsonia borbonica, the Cape bugle-lily,[1] is a species of plant in the family Iridaceae that is native to South Africa.

Watsonia borbonica
Scientific classification
Kingdom: Plantae
Clade: Tracheophytes
Clade: Angiosperms
Clade: Monocots
Order: Asparagales
Family: Iridaceae
Genus: Watsonia
Species:
W. borbonica
Binomial name
Watsonia borbonica
(Pourr.) Goldblatt

Taxonomy

Watsonia borbonica has two subspecies: W. borbonica subsp. ardernei, and subsp. borbonica. W. borbonica subsp. ardernei is named in honour of H.M. Arderne, the Cape Town businessman whose family established the Arderne Gardens in Claremont . This subspecies is best known for its white form that is well-established in cultivation.[2]

Characteristics

The species grows from corms. It is dormant in summer and grows in winter, which is the rainy season in its native habitat. It has tall strap-like leaves growing in a fan arrangement. It may grow up to two metres tall. It flowers for up to 4–5 weeks in spring.

Distribution and habitat

Watsonia borbonica grows in the winter-rainfall areas of the Western Cape of South Africa. It usually grows on slopes consisting of rocky sandstone or clay and granite. It may be found occasionally in sandy soils.[3]

Cultivation

Watsonia borbonica is a good garden plant as it bears showy flowers. It needs well-drained soil and full sun. During the dormant phase it should be kept dry.[4]

References
  1. "Watsonia borbonica". Natural Resources Conservation Service PLANTS Database. USDA. Retrieved 7 August 2015.
  2. http://pza.sanbi.org/watsonia-borbonica
  3. Nonkenge, S.; Notten, A. "Watsonia borbonica". SANBI. Retrieved 11 April 2013.
  4. "Watsonia". Retrieved 11 April 2013.
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