Overview
Watsonia borbonica subsp. borbonica is a tufted bulbs in the genus Watsonia, part of the Iridaceae family, with deciduous foliage. Watsonia borbonica subsp. borbonica grows best in full sun, and tolerates loam and sand soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H3. Suggested uses include patio and container plants, mediterranean climate plants, conservatory and greenhouse, cut flowers, flower borders and beds and wall side borders.
About
Watsonia borbonica, the Cape bugle-lily, is a species of plant in the family Iridaceae that is native to South Africa.
Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Watsonia borbonica
About the genus
Watsonia is a genus of plants in the family Iridaceae, subfamily Crocoideae. Watsonias are native to southern Africa. The genus is named after Sir William Watson, an 18th-century British botanist.
Wikipedia contributors, "Watsonia (plant)", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Watsonia (plant)
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Watsonia
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Loam, Sand
- Soil pH
- Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing, West-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H3
Plant details
Watsonia borbonica subsp. borbonica size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Bulbs
- Habit
- Tufted
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Suggested uses
- Patio and container plants, Mediterranean climate plants, Conservatory and greenhouse, Cut flowers, Flower borders and beds, Wall side borders
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Watsonia borbonica subsp. borbonica
- Propagation
- Seed, Division
- Pest resistance
- Generally pest-free
- Disease resistance
- Generally disease-free
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Watsonia borbonica subsp. borbonica?
Watsonia borbonica subsp. borbonica prefers full sun. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Watsonia borbonica subsp. borbonica need?
Watsonia borbonica subsp. borbonica grows best in loam and sand soil. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.
Is Watsonia borbonica subsp. borbonica hardy in the UK?
Watsonia borbonica subsp. borbonica 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 Watsonia borbonica subsp. borbonica?
Seed, Division.