Aristea ecklonii
Common Names: blue flies, blue stars, blue eyed iris, blue corn-lily
Family: Iridaceae (iris Family)
Perennial Tolerant of Shade and Low Light Conditions Can be Grown in
Containers Has evergreen foliage Flowers
Description
Aristea ecklonii is a spreading evergreen perennial with stiff,
upright, grasslike leaves that grow 15-18 in (38.1-45.7 cm) tall in
a tight clump. In spring or early summer, flowering stalks covered
with dozens of small blue saucer shaped flowers stand above the
leaves. Each flower lasts for only one day and is open only in
bright light, but the whole inflorescence makes a spectacular
display above the grassy foliage.
Location
Aristea ecklonii is native to central and southern Africa.
Culture
Aristea ecklonii roots do not like to be disturbed, and plants may
not bloom the first year after transplanting.
Light: Does well in full sun or light shade.
Moisture: Grow Aristea ecklonii in humus rich, well-drained soil,
with plenty of moisture in summer.
Hardiness: USDA Zones 8B - 11.
Propagation: Propagate by seed which is produced in abundance.
Division of the rooted clumps is sometimes successful.
Usage
Use Aristea ecklonii as a potted plant or outdoors in a mixed
perennial border or bed. It looks good in a woodland edge,
especially when planted in a large mass. Aristea ecklonii will
thrive in the moist soils along a stream or garden pond.
Features
Bright blue flowers and a nice compact clump of evergreen foliage
make Aristea ecklonii a good choice for a ground cover or mass
planting in a moist, partly shaded situation. Aristea ecklonii is
similar to and closely related to the blue-eyed grasses (Sisyrinchium
spp.), which are common North American wildflowers also in the iris
family. |
