Watsonia meriana

Originating from South Africa, Watsonia meriana is a semi-hardy bulbous plant that produces sculptural inflorescences in early summer. The flowers boast a beautiful shade of salmon-pink.

It belongs to the Iridaceae family, like crocosmias, schizostylis, and dietes. It is a bulbous plant, with medium green, sword-shaped foliage.

In early summer, it produces upright inflorescences, 80cm (32in) to 1m (3ft) in height, with trumpet-shaped flowers in a shade of orangey-pink. They are about 4 to 5cm (2in) long, held horizontally on the inflorescence. These architectural inflorescences create unique sculptural scenes.

In autumn, small bulblets appear in the axils of the flowers, helping the plant to multiply. In some warm regions, it can become invasive.

It is hardy down to -8°C (17.6°F). Watsonia meriana prefers moist, sandy soils. It is especially sensitive to heavy, wet, and alkaline soils, as well as cold winter winds. Plant it facing south, on a sand dune, in a rockery, or on a bank. When planting, replace the topsoil with pure sand to ensure maximum drainage for the bulb. In colder regions, store the bulbs in a box filled with turf and keep them in a dry, frost-free area.

For a modern bed with exotic vibes, mix Watsonia meriana bulbs with kniphofias, crocosmias, libertias, and carex.