Watsonia
( wot - SOH - nee - uh )
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At-A-Glance InformationThis genus of perennial flowering plants grows from corm and needs full sun and regular waterings during its blooming and growing periods. They are native to South Africa, and their flowers will attract hummingbirds and butterflies to your garden. Flowers are fragrant, red-orange and trumpet-shaped, similar to Gladiolus.
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watsonia Species and Varietals
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Watsonia borbonica (Watsonia pyramidata) This deciduous species of Watsonia blooms in late spring, producing flowers in pink, rose-red, or white. Hybrid varieties are available with flowers in pink, red and lavender. Foliage will die back after blooms fade, and reappear the following autumn. During summer dormancy, these plants prefer dry soil, but will take water if the soil is particularly well-draining. |
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Watsonia pillansii (Watsonia beatricis) This species is evergreen and blooms in the middle of summer with flowers in bright red-apricot. Hybrids come in hues from red to peach. After bloom fades in summer, provide less water and ensure the plant's roots are in soil that is well-draining. |
Caring for watsonia
These plants can tolerate many different soils, but do prefer soil that is well-draining. Set corms 4 inches deep and 6 inches apart in early fall. They can be left undisturbed for many years, though the deciduous type above (Watsonia borbonica) can be dug up and stored indoors during its dormant period in summertime.
Propagation
Problems and Pests
Gallery
Camellias are great candidates to be grown as container plants on your patio.
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A field of thea sinensis
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Camellia hiemalis 'Shishi Gashira'
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Videos
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A video all about growing camellias successfully
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Propagating camellias
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Resources
The New Sunset Western Garden Book: The Ultimate Gardening Guide (2012) - Page 654, Watsonia
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