Overview
Libertia umbellata is a clump-forming herbaceous perennial in the genus Libertia, part of the Iridaceae family, with evergreen foliage. Libertia umbellata grows best in full sun, and tolerates loam soils and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H3. Suggested uses include flower borders and beds, gravel garden, prairie planting and cut flowers.
About
Libertia umbellata is a clump-forming herbaceous perennial in the Iridaceae family. Like other Libertia species, it has evergreen, grass-like leaves and produces panicles of saucer-shaped flowers. This cultivar thrives in full sun on a south-facing, sheltered aspect with moist but well-drained loam soil of neutral pH. Hardy to UK zone H3, it is suitable for flower borders, gravel gardens, prairie planting, and cut flowers. It is best planted in well-drained soil and cut back in late winter, with propagation by seed or division.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Libertia
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Loam
- Soil pH
- Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H3
Plant details
Libertia umbellata size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Herbaceous Perennial
- Habit
- Clump-forming
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Suggested uses
- Flower borders and beds, Gravel garden, Prairie planting, Cut flowers
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Libertia umbellata
- Propagation
- Seed, Division
- Pest resistance
- Generally pest-free
- Disease resistance
- Generally disease-free
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Libertia umbellata?
Libertia umbellata prefers full sun. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Libertia umbellata need?
Libertia umbellata grows best in loam soil. It prefers neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.
Is Libertia umbellata hardy in the UK?
Libertia umbellata has an RHS hardiness rating of H3, meaning it is half-hardy, tolerating -5 to 1°C, and may need winter protection in colder areas.
How do I propagate Libertia umbellata?
Seed, Division.
More in the Libertia genus
- Libertia chilensisNew Zealand satin flower
- Libertia cranwelliae
- Libertia grandiflora
- Libertia peregrinansNew Zealand iris
- Libertia chilensis stoloniferous