Watsonia aletroides

Native to the Cape region in South Africa, Watsonia aletroides is a semi-hardy bulbous plant that bears spike-like inflorescences of tubular flowers in spring, with a vibrant shade that is intermediate between coral pink and shrimp pink. This plant has sword-shaped, glossy leaves reminiscent of Gladioli. It thrives in well-drained, light soil that is moist during the growing season and dry in summer, and prefers full sun.

Belonging to the Iridaceae family like Crocosmias, Schizostylis, and Dietes, Watsonia aletroides is a cormous plant with medium green, glossy foliage that resembles Gladioli leaves and reaches a height of 40cm (16in). In its native habitat, it grows on rocky slopes, high plateaus, and grassy slopes. From late spring to early summer, depending on the climate, it produces upright, unbranched inflorescences that are 60cm (24in) in height and adorned with a dozen elongated trumpet-shaped flowers. The flowers have a slightly upturned edge and are an indescribable translucent, shiny watermelon red-pink color. They measure 4 to 5cm (2in) in length and gently tilt towards the ground. When left to its own devices in a mild climate, the plant gradually forms beautiful clumps through the production of underground bulblets.

In the intense light of June, the inflorescences of Watsonia aletroides create original and highly colourful scenes. For a modern mass planting with exotic flair, mix your Watsonia aletroides bulbs with Kniphofias, Crocosmias, Libertias, and Carex. This plant is cultivated similarly to Gladioli, which are lifted after the foliage has turned yellow and then replanted in early spring. It also makes beautiful container displays for decorating a terrace or balcony.