Watsonia Marlothii

Watsonia marlothii is a striking winter-growing South African corm from the Roggeveld and adjoining mountain country. Broad blue-green, sword-shaped leaves support tall late-spring spikes of bell-like flowers that range from violet and mauve to deep reddish purple, often with a yellow-streaked throat. Reaching well over a metre when mature, it creates a bold vertical display above the foliage. The species follows the winter-rainfall rhythm of its homeland and is best grown under cool glass or in a mild, sharply drained garden with a completely dry summer rest.