A striking and unusual species, Moraea lurida is native to the winter rainfall regions of South Africa, particularly the Cape Floristic Region, where it grows in stony, well-drained soils in open grassland and scrub. This deciduous geophyte emerges in late winter to spring, sending up slender stems topped with large, iris-like flowers in intriguing shades of bronze, copper, olive-green, or even purplish-brown—often with a metallic sheen that makes each bloom look otherworldly. These are seed grown and this species has tons of variation so like anything in this catalog please expect some variation. I try to grow from seed whenever I can so that I keep new genetics and mixing happening. The flowers open in the afternoon and last only a day, but are produced over a succession of days.
Best suited to cultivation in a well-drained, gritty soil mix in full sun, Moraea lurida thrives in pots or bulb frames, and can be grown in the open garden in Mediterranean or desert climates. It is sensitive to summer moisture and should be kept dry during dormancy. In colder climates, it should be grown under cover or lifted and stored dry through winter. Hardy to approximately USDA zone 9 (to around 20°F / -6°C) if kept dry, but more reliably grown frost-free. A rewarding and conversation-starting species for collectors and lovers of the unusual..
Photo courtesy of Mary Sue Ittner
A striking and unusual species, Moraea lurida is native to the winter rainfall regions of South Africa, particularly the Cape Floristic Region, where it grows in stony, well-drained soils in open grassland and scrub. This deciduous geophyte emerges in late winter to spring, sending up slender stems topped with large, iris-like flowers in intriguing shades of bronze, copper, olive-green, or even purplish-brown—often with a metallic sheen that makes each bloom look otherworldly. These are seed grown and this species has tons of variation so like anything in this catalog please expect some variation. I try to grow from seed whenever I can so that I keep new genetics and mixing happening. The flowers open in the afternoon and last only a day, but are produced over a succession of days.
Best suited to cultivation in a well-drained, gritty soil mix in full sun, Moraea lurida thrives in pots or bulb frames, and can be grown in the open garden in Mediterranean or desert climates. It is sensitive to summer moisture and should be kept dry during dormancy. In colder climates, it should be grown under cover or lifted and stored dry through winter. Hardy to approximately USDA zone 9 (to around 20°F / -6°C) if kept dry, but more reliably grown frost-free. A rewarding and conversation-starting species for collectors and lovers of the unusual..
Photo courtesy of Mary Sue Ittner
