Care of the bulbous plant Tritonia gladiolaris or Chiffon lace |
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The genus Tritonia, family Iridaceae, comprises 30 species of bulbous plants native to southern Africa. Some species are: Tritonia gladiolaris, Tritonia crocata, Tritonia aurea, Tritonia squalida, Tritonia nelsonii. Common names: Chiffon lace, Lined tritonia, Montbretia. This species is native to South Africa. They are bulbous herbaceous plants that reach 50 cm (19.68") in height when they bloom. The leaves are long ribbons 35 cm (13.7") in length. The flowers appear in clusters, are cream, white, orange or yellow and give off an intense aroma, especially at night. They bloom in the second half of spring and in early summer. Seeds are obtained from the capsule-shaped fruits. They are used in borders, in rockeries, to create colored spots in the lawn and in pots and planters. They are ideal for Mediterranean gardens. Tritonia gladiolaris grows in full sun or light shade exposure. They do not resist frost. The soil can be normal garden soil with 20% coarse siliceous sand. Water regularly during the growing and flowering period waiting for the soil to dry out. Reduce watering when flowers fade; do not water when the leaves have dried. In frost-free regions leave the bulbs buried; if the winter is very cold dig them up and store them in a dry and dark place. Fertilize in early spring with mineral fertilizer. They do not need pruning. They are quite resistant plants to the usual pests and diseases. They are propagated from seeds sown in spring or by division of bulbs in late winter or early spring. |
Images of the bulbous plant Tritonia gladiolaris or Chiffon lace |
 Tritonia gladiolaris  Tritonia gladiolaris  Tritonia gladiolaris |