Chasmanthe

(Pro - nun - see - ashun )

At-A-Glance Information

These drought-tolerant perennial flowers grow from corms, and require full sun to partial shade and do not need irrigation. The nectar is attractive to hummingbirds and they are native to South Africa. Leaves reach 2 feet tall and form fans in early fall. Flower spikes grow to 3.5 feet tall and hold bright orange-red flowers in winter and early springtime. These are hardy plants, though the flower buds can be damaged by late frosts. 

Chasmanthe Species and Varietals

The genus Chasmanthe is a member of the plant family Iridaceae and includes just three species. The genus name is derived from the Greek words 'chasme' (gaping) and 'anthos' (flower). Chasmanthe grows best in zones 13 and 15-24, though they can be grown in most climates if the corms are dug up and stored during their dormant period. To find your zone, click here: Zone Map.

Chasmanthe aethiopica (Cobra Lily)
Flower spikes in this species are unbranched, and hold blossoms on just one side. The species is native to Cape Province, and has naturalized in many areas in Portugal, Spain, Madeira, and the Canary Islands. 

Chasmanthe bicolor (Red-And-Green Cobra Lily)
This species is native to Cape Province and is naturalized in California, Italy, and Great Britain. Flowers are salmon-orange and yellow-green.

Chasmanthe floribunda
Flower spikes are either unbranched or branch just one time, and blossoms are held on both sides. There are approximately 12-28 orange-yellow flowers per spike. Varietal Chasmanthe floribunda duckitii has yellow blooms.

Caring for Name

Propagation

Problems and Pests

Gallery

Chasmanthe floribunda duckitii has yellow flowers.
A field of thea sinensis
Camellia hiemalis 'Shishi Gashira'

Videos

A video all about growing camellias successfully
Propagating camellias

Resources

The New Sunset Western Garden Book: The Ultimate Gardening Guide (2012) - Page 236, Chasmanthe
If you have any questions, comments, concerns, or photos you’d like to add to the gallery, please let me know by sending me a message using the button below!
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