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Watsonia

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description Watsonia Overview

Watsonia is a genus of corm-forming perennial plants in the iris family, Iridaceae. The genus is native to southern Africa, especially regions of South Africa, and its species produce sword-shaped leaves with upright flower spikes in colors that include pink, white, orange, and red. Watsonia was named for the English botanist William Watson, who lived from 1715 to 1787, and the genus includes roughly fifty recognized species.

help Watsonia FAQ

Is Watsonia a bulb or a corm plant?

Watsonia is a corm-forming perennial in the iris family, Iridaceae. Its corms produce sword-shaped leaves followed by tall, upright flower spikes.

What colors do Watsonia flowers come in?

Depending on the species or cultivar, Watsonia spikes can carry pink, white, orange, or red flowers. Watsonia borbonica is a well-known garden example, but the exact color and height depend on the plant label.

How much sun does Watsonia need?

Give Watsonia full sun and sharply drained soil, especially where the corms pass through a dry dormant season. Water more during active growth and avoid leaving the planting bed waterlogged.

How is Watsonia different from gladiolus?

Both Watsonia and gladiolus are corm-forming members of Iridaceae, but Watsonia is a separate genus with its own flower shape and growth habit. A tall spike alone is not enough for identification, so check the species or cultivar name.

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