Overview

Libertia formosa is a perennial in the genus Libertia, part of the Iridaceae family. Libertia formosa grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates well-drained soils. It is native to Juan Fernández Islands, central and southern Chile and southern Argentina.

About

Libertia formosa is a perennial in the iris family that flowers in summer. It blooms from June to August. Native to the Juan Fernández Islands, central and southern Chile and southern Argentina, it suits positions in full sun or partial shade. It prefers well-drained soil that remains moist.

Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Libertia chilensis

About the genus

Libertia is a genus of monocotyledonous plants in the family Iridaceae, first described as a genus in 1824. It is native to South America, Australia, New Guinea, and New Zealand. Eight species are endemic to New Zealand.

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

In the garden

Libertia formosa belongs to the Iridaceae and is native to the Juan Fernández Islands, central and southern Chile and southern Argentina. Often called New Zealand satin flower, snowy mermaid or Chilean-iris, it is grown for its summer flowering and sits within the genus Libertia. Give Libertia formosa a site in full sun or partial shade and a soil that drains freely yet retains moisture; consistently damp, waterlogged ground should be avoided. A layer of organic mulch will help the soil hold even moisture through drier spells while still permitting free drainage. Position plants where they receive enough light to set flowers between June and August. In UK gardens it fits where soils stay reliably moist but are not stagnant, for example at the edge of perennial borders or alongside paths where soil texture allows free drainage. It adapts to a range of temperate spots provided root conditions suit its moisture needs. Expect flowering in the summer months and use that period to assess whether the siting needs altering to increase light or improve drainage.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Libertia

Sunlight

full sun, partial shade

Soil type

well-drained

Soil moisture

moist

Plant details

Libertia formosa size, habit and characteristics

Plant type

perennial

Native to

Juan Fernández Islands, central and southern Chile, southern Argentina

Frequently asked questions