Overview

Dierama pumilum ('Hermia') is a perennial in the genus Dierama, part of the Iridaceae family. Dierama pumilum ('Hermia') grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates well-drained soils. It is native to South Africa.

About

Dierama pumilum ('Hermia') is a perennial in the iris family (Iridaceae) known by the common names Venus' Fishing Rod and Wandflower. Native to South Africa, it flowers in the UK from July to September. Plant it in full sun or partial shade in a well-drained soil that retains some moisture.

Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Dierama pumilum

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 pumilum ('Hermia') is a perennial member of the Iridaceae from South Africa and is grown for its summer flowering, which in the UK runs from July to September. The species is commonly sold under the names Venus' Fishing Rod and Wandflower, which reflect its characteristic flowering habit used in ornamental planting. Choose a site with full sun or light afternoon shade and a soil that drains freely but does not dry out completely in summer. A loam or sandy loam improved with organic matter will hold the moderate moisture this plant prefers while still shedding excess water; avoid heavy, waterlogged ground. Plant with the crown at soil level and allow room for air movement to reduce the risk of rot where soil remains damp. In a UK border, place Dierama pumilum ('Hermia') toward the middle or back where its summer blooms can be seen above lower perennials, or pair it with other moisture-tolerant herbaceous plants in a naturalistic scheme. Its July–September flowering makes it useful for extending the season of interest through late summer, so site it where those months of colour are most valued.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Dierama

Sunlight

full sun, partial shade

Soil type

well-drained

Soil moisture

moist

Plant details

Dierama pumilum ('Hermia') size, habit and characteristics

Plant type

perennial

Native to

South Africa

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Dierama pumilum ('Hermia')

Propagation

division,seed

Frequently asked questions