Overview
Moraea bellendenii (Sweet) N.E.Br. subsp. cormifera Goldblatt is a rare dwarf iris-like plant that belongs to the family of Iridaceae. This plant is native to South Africa and is also commonly known as Butterfly Iris, Traveller's Joy, and ‘Lampranthus’. The plant is widely cultivated for ornamental purposes but also has some medicinal and cultural uses.
Description
The Moraea bellendenii is a geophyte that originates from South Africa's mountains and grasslands. It grows up to 10 cm tall, and it produces a corm that is 15mm in diameter. The leaves of this plant are narrow and have a grey-green color. The flowers of the plant are several and are borne on leafless stems that are longer than the leaves. The petals of the flower are white and adorned with striking pinkish-lilac markings that are unique to the species. The Butterfly Iris blooms from July to August, and during that period, it attracts butterflies and bees to the garden.
Uses
The Moraea bellendenii plant has some medicinal properties attributed to it and consumed as herbal tea by the local healers in South Africa to treat several minor diseases. The plant's corm is also crushed and used to treat sores and wounds, and as an antiseptic. The plant is a popular addition to rock gardens and ornamental borders because of its striking beauty. Its long-lasting flowers and drought tolerance make it a good option in arid areas. The plant is not only grown for ornamental purposes but is also used in cultural practices. The plant's corm is boiled and served as food in some African communities.
Cultivation
The Moraea bellendenii grows well in full sun or partial shade. It thrives in well-draining, sandy, or loamy soils and needs moderate watering. The plant is adapted to drought and requires minimal watering practices, making it ideal for water-conscious gardens. Butterfly Iris is propagated by offsets or seeds. Because of its rarity, only a few nurseries stock it, making it a highly sought-after garden plant.
Light Requirements
The Moraea bellendenii subsp. cormifera thrives best in full sunlight, that is, direct exposure to the sun's rays. Provide at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day for optimal growth. The plant can tolerate partial shade but too much shade may lead to stunted growth.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for the Moraea bellendenii subsp. cormifera is between 18°C to 27°C (64°F to 80°F) during the day and 15°C to 18°C (59°F to 64°F) at night. This plant is adapted to mild temperatures and does not tolerate frost. It is best grown in USDA hardiness zones 9-11.
Soil Requirements
The Moraea bellendenii subsp. cormifera prefers well-draining soil with a pH range of 6.0-7.0. A sandy loam soil mixture with organic matter such as compost or peat moss is ideal for the plant's growth. Avoid waterlogged or heavy clay soils as they can lead to root rot and stunted growth. Also, regular application of a balanced fertilizer will help to maintain healthy growth.
Cultivation Methods of Moraea Bellendenii (Sweet) N.E.Br. subsp. Cormifera Goldblatt
Moraea Bellendenii is a member of the iris family and is commonly known as the Bellenden Ker Iris. It is native to South Africa and grows in sandy soil in the winter rainfall regions. For successful cultivation, it is necessary to replicate their natural habitat closely. The following methods should be observed:
- Plant the corms 5-8cm deep
- The ideal time to plant is in the autumn after rainfall
- Choose a sunny location with well-draining soil or pots of at least 25cm with the same soil requirements
- Keep the planting area weed-free, especially while the plant is still small
- Ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal infections
Watering Requirements of Moraea Bellendenii (Sweet) N.E.Br. subsp. Cormifera Goldblatt
The Bellenden Ker Iris is accustomed to winter rainfall and is drought resistant, but it still requires the appropriate amount of watering to thrive. Here are some tips:
- Water very moderately at planting time
- Do not water again until they begin to sprout, and the soil has completely dried out
- Water only about once a week, but this can vary depending on your climate and soil type
- Water sparingly in the summer while the plant is dormant
Fertilization Methods of Moraea Bellendenii (Sweet) N.E.Br. subsp. Cormifera Goldblatt
This plant can grow without extra fertilization, but it can benefit from the following practices:
- Fertilize once a month from the start of the growing season until the plant becomes dormant more in summer
- Apply a weak all-purpose water-soluble fertilizer that contains nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium
- Avoid over-fertilization, which can cause the plant to become weak and unhealthy
Pruning Methods of Moraea Bellendenii (Sweet) N.E.Br. subsp. Cormifera Goldblatt
Pruning in Bellenden Ker Iris is essential when flowers and foliage wither to ensure healthy growth next season. Here are some tips to follow:
- Pinch back spent flowers and remove diseased leaves to promote new growth
- Cut back all the leaves when the plant becomes dormant in summer
- Leave a portion of the stem attached to the corm after pruning to facilitate photosynthesis and promote new growth
- Discard any debris around the plant to prevent pests and diseases from developing
Propagation of Moraea bellendenii (Sweet) N.E.Br. subsp. cormifera Goldblatt
Moraea bellendenii (Sweet) N.E.Br. subsp. cormifera Goldblatt is usually propagated through seeds and corms. The plant can also be propagated through division, but it is less common.
Propagation through Seeds
Propagation through seeds is the easiest and most common method of propagating M. bellendenii. The seeds should be sown in well-draining soil and kept moist until germination. Germination usually takes 2-3 weeks, depending on the temperature and humidity. The seedlings should be watered regularly and kept in a warm, bright location. Once the seedlings have grown to a suitable size, they can be transplanted to their permanent location.
Propagation through Corms
Propagating M. bellendenii through corms is also possible. The corms should be planted in well-draining soil in a warm, bright location. The corms should be kept moist but not waterlogged until they begin to sprout. The sprouts can be kept in the same location until they reach a suitable size for transplant. Care should be taken not to damage the corms when planting, as this can inhibit their growth.
Disease Management
Moraea bellendenii subsp. cormifera is susceptible to various diseases, some of which include:
- Leaf Spot - This disease manifests as small brown spots on the leaves of the plant. It is caused by fungal pathogens and can lead to the wilting and eventual death of infected leaves. To manage leaf spot, remove and destroy infected leaves and ensure proper air circulation by pruning the surrounding plants to avoid crowding.
- Bulb Rot - This disease is caused by a fungus that infects the plant's underground bulbs, causing them to rot and eventually die. It can be managed by keeping the soil dry and well-drained, avoiding overwatering, and applying fungicides to prevent the spread of the fungus.
- Root Rot - Overwatering is the primary cause of root rot, and it presents as brown, mushy roots that cannot absorb nutrients effectively. To manage root rot, adjust the plant's watering schedule, improve soil drainage, and apply fungicides to prevent the spread of the fungus.
Pest Management
Moraea bellendenii subsp. cormifera can also attract some pests, including:
- Thrip - These insects can cause significant damage to the plants by feeding on the leaves and flowers, leading to the formation of necrotic spots. To manage thrips, spray insecticides on the plant's foliage, focusing on the undersides of the leaves where they like to hide.
- Spider Mites - These are small arachnids that are hard to detect early on. Their feeding causes mottling, yellowing, and drying up of leaves. To manage spider mites, spray the plant's leaves with water, use insecticidal soap or neem oil, and maintain a humid environment to discourage infestations.
- Slugs and Snails - These creatures like to feed on the plant's leaves, causing significant damage to the appearance of the plant. To manage them, remove any debris and moisture that may attract them, handpick them off the plants, and use baits and repellents to prevent infestations.
