About
Gelasine uruguaiensis subsp. orientalis is a cormous perennial from South America in the iris family (Iridaceae) producing the characteristic narrow, iris-like leaves and blue or violet flowers of the genus. A rewarding bulb for a sunny, well-drained frost-free border.
About the genus
Gelasine are cormous perennials in the iris family (Iridaceae) from South America with narrow, iris-like leaves and blue or violet flowers. Grown in sunny, well-drained, frost-free positions.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectWest-facing, South-facing, North-facing, East-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH5
Plant details
Plant typeShrubs
HabitBushy
FoliageDeciduous
Height4-8 metres
Spread4-8 metres
Time to full height10-20 years
Suggested usesSpecimen planting, large borders, parkland settings.
Native toSicily, Sardinia
FragranceFlower
Care notes
CultivationGrow in poor but well-drained soil in full sun
PruningPruning group 1. Will not tolerate hard pruning. New growth will not rejuvenate from old wood
PropagationPropagate by seed or semi-hardwood cuttings
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to aphids and gall mites
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to honey fungus in gardens where it is present but insufficient data to determine degree of susceptibility