Overview
Chasmanthe aethiopica is a perennial in the genus Chasmanthe, part of the Iridaceae family. Chasmanthe aethiopica grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates most soils and neutral and slightly acidic pH. Suggested uses include ornamental, garden borders and cut flowers. It is native to S Africa (S Cape).
About
Chasmanthe aethiopica is a perennial geophyte in the iris family, producing upright spikes of red-purple flowers in summer. Native to the southern Cape of South Africa, it has a mild floral scent. It prefers full sun or partial shade and thrives in well-drained, sandy or loamy soils with neutral to slightly acidic pH. Suited to ornamental borders and as a reliable cut flower.
Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Chasmanthe aethiopica
About the genus
Chasmanthe is a genus of flowering plants in the family Iridaceae, first described in 1932. It is endemic to Cape Province in South Africa. It is widely grown as an ornamental plant and is naturalized in various locations.
Wikipedia contributors, "Chasmanthe", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Chasmanthe
In the garden
Chasmanthe aethiopica sits in the Iridaceae and originates from the southern Cape of South Africa. As a perennial geophyte it regrows from an underground storage organ and produces summer flower spikes that are mildly fragrant. In the UK its flowering period is June to August. Plant into a sunny or lightly shaded position where soil drains freely; sandy or loamy mixes are ideal. Aim for neutral to slightly acidic soil pH and avoid heavy, waterlogged ground—moderate, well-drained moisture suits it best. It tolerates both sheltered and more exposed sites, provided drainage is good. Use this species in mixed garden borders where upright summer flowers are needed, or grow it for cutting beds: stems make attractive blooms for vases. Keep planting locations well drained and choose a site with summer sun to encourage the best display of summer flowering spikes.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Chasmanthe
- Sunlight
- full sun, partial shade
- Soil type
- well-drained, sandy, loamy
- Soil pH
- neutral, slightly acidic
- Soil moisture
- moderate, well-drained
- Exposure
- sheltered to exposed
Plant details
Chasmanthe aethiopica size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- perennial, geophyte
- Suggested uses
- ornamental, garden borders, cut flowers
- Native to
- S Africa (S Cape)
- Fragrance
- mildly fragrant
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Chasmanthe aethiopica
- Cultivation
- plant corms in well-drained soil in spring; water moderately; protect from frost
- Pruning
- remove spent flower spikes to encourage new growth
- Propagation
- corm division, seed
Frequently asked questions
How do I grow Chasmanthe aethiopica?
Plant corms in well-drained soil in spring; water moderately; protect from frost.
Where is the best place to plant Chasmanthe aethiopica?
Chasmanthe aethiopica prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits sheltered to exposed positions.
What soil does Chasmanthe aethiopica need?
Chasmanthe aethiopica is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including well-drained, sandy and loamy. It prefers neutral and slightly acidic soil. Aim for soil that stays moderate to well-drained.
How do I prune Chasmanthe aethiopica?
Remove spent flower spikes to encourage new growth.
How do I propagate Chasmanthe aethiopica?
Corm division, seed.