Care of the bulbous plant Watsonia borbonica or Cape bugle-lily |
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The genus Watsonia, family Iridaceae, comprises 50 species of herbaceous plants with corms native to southern Africa. Some species are: Watsonia borbonica, Watsonia meriana, Watsonia marginata, Watsonia spectabilis, Watsonia gladioloides. Common names: Cape bugle-lily, Bugle lily, Pink Watsonia. This species is native to the South Africa. They are bulbous deciduous plants that reach 2 meters (6.56 feet) in height. The time of rest is in summer. They have broad, shiny sword-shaped leaves. The attractive tubular flowers appear in spikes, give off a slight scent and can be white, pink or purple. They bloom for a month in the second half of spring. They are used to form groups, in borders and in large pots. They are ideal for cut flowers. Watsonia borbonica prefers full sun exposure and warm temperatures. They resist light and occasional frosts. The soil can be a mixture of compost and coarse sand in equal parts. The bulbs are planted in autumn 10 cm (3.93") deep. They are low maintenance and drought resistant plants. Water moderately waiting for the soil to be dry. They do not need pruning. Dig up the bulbs when the leaves have died and store them in a cool, dry place. If they are left buried, do not water. Fertilize with compost at the time of planting; fertilize once a month with mineral fertilizer during winter and spring. They are plants resistant to pests but sensitive to excess humidity. They propagate from seeds (germinate in 3 weeks) or by separating bulblets. |
Images of the bulbous plant Watsonia borbonica or Cape bugle-lily |
 Watsonia borbonica  Watsonia borbonica  Watsonia borbonica  Watsonia borbonica  Watsonia borbonica  Watsonia borbonica  Watsonia meriana  Watsonia meriana |