Despite the wet overcast summer the spikes of bloom on Watsonia pillansii are magnificent.

Distinct in the south facing border of the Front Range this native to Eastern South Africa is a show stopper. The orange red flowers open gradually from the base of the spike to the tip resulting in a long spell of colour.

The sword like foliage shoots out from a corm, these can be divided to increase the size of the clump. Needing a well drained soil and a sunny position to give of its best. When established and in flower the spikes reach one metre or more in height.

Watsonia pillansii. Photo by Tony Garn

Watsonia pillansii

`Watsonia pillansii. Photo by Tony Garn

Watsonia pillansii

Watsonia pillansii. Photo by Tony Garn

Watsonia pillansii