Overview
Moraea calcicola is a columnar upright bulbs in the genus Moraea, part of the Iridaceae family, with deciduous foliage. Moraea calcicola grows best in full sun, and tolerates loam and sand soils and acid and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H3. Suggested uses include patio and container plants, mediterranean climate plants and cottage and informal garden.
About
Moraea calcicola is a perennial bulbous plant from the Iridaceae family, growing from corms with a columnar upright habit. It has deciduous foliage and thrives in full sun, ideally in a sheltered, south- or west-facing position. This cultivar prefers well-drained loam or sandy soils with an acid to neutral pH. In late spring, it produces clusters of iris-like flowers, characteristic of the Moraea genus, though these blooms are short-lived. Suitable for patios, containers, and Mediterranean-style or informal gardens, it is hardy to UK zone H3 and can be propagated by seed or by separating offsets during dormancy.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Moraea
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Loam, Sand
- Soil pH
- Acid, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing, West-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H3
Plant details
Moraea calcicola size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Bulbs, Conservatory Greenhouse
- Habit
- Columnar upright
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Suggested uses
- Patio and container plants, Mediterranean climate plants, Cottage and informal garden
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Moraea calcicola
- Propagation
- Propagate by seed, or separate offsets when dormant
- Pest resistance
- Generally pest-free
- Disease resistance
- Generally disease-free
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Moraea calcicola?
Moraea calcicola prefers full sun. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Moraea calcicola need?
Moraea calcicola grows best in loam and sand soil. It prefers acid and neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays well-drained.
Is Moraea calcicola hardy in the UK?
Moraea calcicola 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 Moraea calcicola?
Propagate by seed, or separate offsets when dormant.
More in the Moraea genus
- Moraea bellendenii
- Moraea ciliata
- Moraea fugax
- Moraea inclinata
- Moraea ochroleuca
- Moraea setifolia
- Moraea simulans
- Moraea vegetabruinuintjie
