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.

About

Belamcanda chinensis is a perennial in the iris family grown primarily for ornamental and cut-flower use. It reaches about 1.0 m and suits full sun on sandy or loamy soils kept moist but well drained. The plant is fully hardy in the UK (H7) and also fits USDA zones 4–10. All parts are toxic if ingested, so position with care.

Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Iris domestica

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