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 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
Where is the best place to plant Dierama pumilum ('Hermia')?
Dierama pumilum ('Hermia') prefers full sun and partial shade.
What soil does Dierama pumilum ('Hermia') need?
Dierama pumilum ('Hermia') grows best in well-drained soil. Aim for soil that stays moist.
How do I propagate Dierama pumilum ('Hermia')?
Division,seed.
From the Fenn Plants journal
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- Keeping Your NerveHow to garden through a heatwave — the best time to water, why deep soaks beat daily sprinkles, caring for pots and vulnerable plants, and why you can let the lawn go brown.
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More in the Dierama genus
- Dierama pulcherrimum 'Blackbird'angel's fishing rod 'Blackbird'
- Dierama pulcherrimum 'Jay'Angel's Fishing Rod
- Dierama pulcherrimum 'Windhover'Angel's Fishing Rod
- Dierama pumilum 'Ceres'Venus' Fishing Rod
- Dierama pumilum 'Oberon'Venus' Fishing Rod
- Dierama pumilum 'Puck'
- Dierama pumilum 'Titania'Venus' Fishing Rod