Overview

Dierama pulcherrimum 'Jay' is a perennial in the genus Dierama, part of the Iridaceae family. It typically grows around 1.5 metres tall. Dierama pulcherrimum 'Jay' grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates well-drained soils. Its UK hardiness is rated H4. Suggested uses include borders and containers. It is native to southeastern Cape Provinces of South Africa.

About

Dierama pulcherrimum 'Jay' is a tall perennial in the iris family that bears arching stems topped with nodding, rosy pink bell-shaped flowers. It reaches about 1.5 metres and flowers from July to September. Plant it in a sheltered, sunny or part-shaded spot with well-drained but moist soil and protection from strong winds. It works well at the back of borders or in large containers where the long stems can be shown off.

Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Dierama pulcherrimum

About the genus

Dierama is a genus of flowering plants in the family Iridaceae. Common names include hairbells, angel's fishing rod, fairybells, and wandflowers in English and grasklokkies in Afrikaans. They are native to Africa, with most occurring in the southern regions of the continent.

Wikipedia contributors, "Dierama", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Dierama

In the garden

Dierama pulcherrimum 'Jay' is a South African perennial from the southeastern Cape Provinces, producing long, arching flowering stems that carry nodding, rosy pink bells through July to September. The plant reaches roughly 1.5 metres, making it a tall accent in a summer display. Choose a site in full sun or partial shade with well-drained soil that retains some moisture; avoid dry, bone-dry positions. A sheltered situation keeps the arching stems from whipping in strong winds. Its UK rating of H4 corresponds to average garden hardiness, so most mainland sites will keep it through typical winters provided it is not left exposed on a wind-swept bank. Use Dierama pulcherrimum 'Jay' at the rear of mixed borders where its height and pendulous flowers add vertical movement, or plant in a large container with steady moisture and a deep compost to anchor the root clump. Group with lower perennials so the flowers are visible rather than obscured by foliage. In containers or exposed corners place it close to a wall or fence to give the stems shelter while they flower.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Dierama

Sunlight

full sun, partial shade

Soil type

well-drained

Soil moisture

moist

Exposure

sheltered

UK hardiness

H4

Plant details

Dierama pulcherrimum 'Jay' size, habit and characteristics

Plant type

perennial

Height

1.5 metres

Suggested uses

borders, containers

Native to

southeastern Cape Provinces of South Africa

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Dierama pulcherrimum 'Jay'

Cultivation

Plant in well-drained soil in a sunny or partially shaded position. Protect from strong winds. Water regularly during dry periods.

Pruning

Cut back dead flower stems after flowering to maintain appearance.

Propagation

Division in spring or autumn; seed propagation possible but slow.

Frequently asked questions