Overview

Moraea spathulata is a bulbous perennial in the genus Moraea, part of the Iridaceae family. Moraea spathulata grows best in full sun, and tolerates well-drained and sandy or loamy soil soils. Suggested uses include rock gardens and borders. It is native to Zimbabwe to S Africa.

About

Moraea spathulata is a bulbous perennial in the iris family that flowers from May to July. Native from Zimbabwe to South Africa, it favours a sheltered, sunny position in well-drained sandy or loamy soil. It tolerates dry to moderate soil moisture and is suited to rock gardens and sunny borders. Wear gloves when handling and keep the plant away from children and pets, as it is harmful if eaten.

Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Moraea spathulata

About the genus

Moraea, the Cape tulips, is a genus of plants in the family Iridaceae, first described as a genus in 1758. The group is widespread across Africa, the Mediterranean, and central and southwestern Asia. The genus name is a tribute to the English botanist Robert More.

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

In the garden

A member of the Iridaceae, Moraea spathulata grows from a bulb and produces its seasonal display between May and July. Originating from a range stretching from Zimbabwe to South Africa, it is adapted to relatively dry, free-draining sites and sunny exposure, so pick the warmest, most sheltered spot you can offer in the UK. Plant in well-drained sandy or loamy soil and avoid heavy, waterlogged ground; the species prefers dry to moderate soil moisture and will not thrive where winter or spring soils remain wet. Sit it in full sun with some shelter from prevailing wind—placing bulbs in a south-facing border, raised bed or gravel pocket will help reproduce its native conditions. Take care when handling and planting: the plant is harmful if eaten so wear gloves and avoid sites where children or animals might nibble foliage or bulbs. In cultivation it works best where drainage and sun are reliable, notably in rock gardens and sunny mixed borders where bulbs can be given sharp soil and shelter. Because its flowering window is May to July, plan surrounding plants to provide structure before and after the display, and keep it away from areas used by pets or young children due to its toxicity.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Moraea

Sunlight

full sun

Soil type

well-drained, sandy or loamy soil

Soil moisture

dry to moderate

Exposure

sheltered

Plant details

Moraea spathulata size, habit and characteristics

Plant type

bulbous perennial

Suggested uses

rock gardens, borders

Native to

Zimbabwe to S Africa

Toxicity

Harmful if eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling Pets: Harmful if eaten - see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants for further information and useful contact numbers

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Moraea spathulata

Cultivation

Plant bulbs in autumn in well-drained soil; avoid waterlogging

Pruning

Remove spent flowers to encourage tidiness

Propagation

by seed or division of bulbs

Frequently asked questions