Schizostylis coccinea 'Professor Barnard' (Lily) — perennial

Overview

Schizostylis coccinea 'Professor Barnard' is a perennial in the genus Schizostylis, part of the Iridaceae family. It typically grows around 0.6 metres tall. Schizostylis coccinea 'Professor Barnard' grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates moist and well-drained soils. Its UK hardiness is rated H5. Suggested uses include borders, containers and water gardens. It is native to Southern Africa and Zimbabwe.

About

Schizostylis coccinea 'Professor Barnard' is a perennial in the iris family that reaches about 0.6 metres. It prefers moist, well-drained soil and does well in full sun or partial shade. In the UK it carries an H5 rating, meaning it is classed as hardy. Use it where moisture can be maintained, such as borders, containers or water-garden margins.

Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Hesperantha coccinea

About the genus

Hesperantha is a genus of cormous flowering plants in the family Iridaceae. The genus name is derived from the Greek words hesperos, meaning "evening", and anthos, meaning "flower".

In the garden

Belonging to the iris family Iridaceae, Schizostylis coccinea 'Professor Barnard' is a 0.6 metre perennial from Southern Africa and Zimbabwe. Its size places it at mid-border height and makes it straightforward to place where a reliable upright element is wanted without overpowering neighbouring plants. Plant in a spot that receives full sun or partial shade and in soil that stays moist yet drains freely; the cultivar's listed soil preference is moist, well-drained. As an H5-rated plant (hardy in the UK) it can be left outdoors through ordinary winters; in containers ensure compost retains moisture and avoid allowing the pot to dry out between waterings. Recommended uses include planting at the edge of ponds or streams where the substrate remains damp, in containers positioned to keep roots cool, or as a mid-border specimen alongside plants that tolerate moist conditions. Its moderate height and moisture preference make it particularly suitable for sites where other perennials struggle with dry soil. Give each plant enough room to show its 0.6 metre stature so it remains visible from paths and pond edges.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Schizostylis

Sunlight: full sun, partial shade
Soil type: moist, well-drained
Soil moisture: moist
UK hardiness: H5

Plant details

Schizostylis coccinea 'Professor Barnard' size, habit and characteristics

Plant type: perennial
Height: 0.6 metres
Suggested uses: borders, containers, water gardens
Native to: Southern Africa, Zimbabwe

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Schizostylis coccinea 'Professor Barnard'

Cultivation: Prefers moist, well-drained soil; benefits from mulching in winter; plant in full sun or partial shade
Pruning: Cut back after flowering to tidy the plant
Propagation: division in spring or autumn, seed

Frequently asked questions

How do I grow Schizostylis coccinea 'Professor Barnard'?

Prefers moist, well-drained soil; benefits from mulching in winter; plant in full sun or partial shade.

Where is the best place to plant Schizostylis coccinea 'Professor Barnard'?

Schizostylis coccinea 'Professor Barnard' prefers full sun and partial shade.

What soil does Schizostylis coccinea 'Professor Barnard' need?

Schizostylis coccinea 'Professor Barnard' grows best in moist and well-drained soil. Aim for soil that stays moist.

How do I prune Schizostylis coccinea 'Professor Barnard'?

Cut back after flowering to tidy the plant.

How big does Schizostylis coccinea 'Professor Barnard' grow?

Schizostylis coccinea 'Professor Barnard' reaches a height of 0.6 metres.

Is Schizostylis coccinea 'Professor Barnard' hardy in the UK?

Schizostylis coccinea 'Professor Barnard' has an RHS hardiness rating of H5, meaning it is hardy in most of the UK, tolerating -15 to -10°C.

How do I propagate Schizostylis coccinea 'Professor Barnard'?

Division in spring or autumn, seed.

More in the Schizostylis genus

Browse all Schizostylis →