Schizostylis coccinea 'Tambara' — perennial

Overview

Schizostylis coccinea 'Tambara' is a perennial in the genus Schizostylis, part of the Iridaceae family. It typically grows around 0.6 metres tall. Schizostylis coccinea 'Tambara' grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates moist and well-drained soils. Its UK hardiness is rated H4. Suggested uses include borders, containers and water gardens. It is native to Southern Africa and Zimbabwe.

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

Schizostylis coccinea 'Tambara' is a perennial member of the Iridaceae, native to Southern Africa and Zimbabwe, that typically grows to around 0.6 metres. It performs best where soil stays moist yet drains freely and benefits from a sheltered aspect out of drying winds; give it full sun or a light afternoon shade in hotter sites. The cultivar's hardiness is H4, which corresponds to average winter hardiness in UK conditions, so choose a protected spot in colder gardens. Establish plants in a rich, moisture-retentive but free-draining border mix or an ericaceous compost in containers; ensure pots have good drainage while keeping a regular watering routine so the rootzone never dries out. For waterside planting position it at the margin where roots are kept damp but not permanently submerged, and place containers on a sheltered patio or against a warm wall. Schizostylis coccinea 'Tambara' suits late-season structure in mixed borders and will hold its place where summer drought risks are low. In a container allow space for a substantial rootball and a consistent watering regime to match its preference for moist soil and sheltered exposure.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Schizostylis

Sunlight: full sun, partial shade
Soil type: moist, well-drained
Soil moisture: moist
Exposure: sheltered
UK hardiness: H4

Plant details

Schizostylis coccinea 'Tambara' 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 'Tambara'

Cultivation: Plant in moist, well-drained soil in full sun or partial shade. Protect from harsh winds.
Pruning: Remove spent flowers to encourage further blooming.
Propagation: division, seed

Frequently asked questions

How do I grow Schizostylis coccinea 'Tambara'?

Plant in moist, well-drained soil in full sun or partial shade. Protect from harsh winds.

Where is the best place to plant Schizostylis coccinea 'Tambara'?

Schizostylis coccinea 'Tambara' prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits sheltered positions.

What soil does Schizostylis coccinea 'Tambara' need?

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

How do I prune Schizostylis coccinea 'Tambara'?

Remove spent flowers to encourage further blooming.

How big does Schizostylis coccinea 'Tambara' grow?

Schizostylis coccinea 'Tambara' reaches a height of 0.6 metres.

Is Schizostylis coccinea 'Tambara' hardy in the UK?

Schizostylis coccinea 'Tambara' has an RHS hardiness rating of H4, meaning it is hardy through an average UK winter, tolerating -10 to -5°C.