Overview
Belamcanda chinensis is a perennial in the genus Belamcanda, part of the Iridaceae family. It typically grows around 1.0 m tall. Belamcanda chinensis grows best in full sun, and tolerates sandy and loamy soils. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. Suggested uses include ornamental garden plant, borders and cut flowers. It is native to China, Japan, Korea and and the Russian Far East.
In the garden
A member of Iridaceae, Belamcanda chinensis is native to China, Japan, Korea and the Russian Far East and is cultivated as an ornamental perennial. It prefers a sunny site where its upright habit can develop to roughly 1.0 m in height. Plant into sandy or loamy ground that retains moisture without waterlogging; the soil should be moist but well drained. Give it full sun to encourage strong stems and flowering. In UK terms H7 indicates it is fully hardy; it also sits within USDA hardiness zones 4–10, so it tolerates a wide range of winter temperatures where drainage and exposure are appropriate. Use Leopard Lily in mid-border positions, in mixed borders where you need tall, upright stems, or in areas designated for cutting. It suits gardens that can provide a reliably sunny aspect and soils that are not heavy clay. Bear in mind the plant is toxic if ingested and should not be used where children or foraging animals might access foliage or seedheads; at about 1.0 m tall its stems are well suited for cutting for indoor arrangements.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Belamcanda
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Sandy, Loamy
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained
- UK hardiness
- H7
Plant details
Belamcanda chinensis size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Perennial
- Height
- 1.0 m
- Suggested uses
- Ornamental garden plant, Borders, Cut flowers
- Native to
- China, Japan, Korea, and the Russian Far East
- Toxicity
- Toxic if ingested
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Belamcanda chinensis
- Cultivation
- Prefers full sun and well-drained soil; tolerates sandy and loamy soils; keep soil moist but not waterlogged
- Pruning
- Remove spent flowers to encourage further blooming; cut back dead foliage in autumn
- Propagation
- By seed or division
Frequently asked questions
How do I grow Belamcanda chinensis?
Prefers full sun and well-drained soil; tolerates sandy and loamy soils; keep soil moist but not waterlogged.
Where is the best place to plant Belamcanda chinensis?
Belamcanda chinensis prefers full sun.
What soil does Belamcanda chinensis need?
Belamcanda chinensis grows best in sandy and loamy soil. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.
How do I prune Belamcanda chinensis?
Remove spent flowers to encourage further blooming; cut back dead foliage in autumn.
How big does Belamcanda chinensis grow?
Belamcanda chinensis reaches a height of 1.0 m.
Is Belamcanda chinensis hardy in the UK?
Belamcanda chinensis has an RHS hardiness rating of H7, meaning it is fully hardy throughout the UK, tolerating temperatures below -20°C.
How do I propagate Belamcanda chinensis?
By seed or division.
Is Belamcanda chinensis toxic?
Toxic if ingested.
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