(Syn: Homeria pendula)
An interesting South African bulbous perennial, Moraea pendula is native to the winter-rainfall regions of the Western Cape, where it grows on open, rocky slopes and flats in well-drained soils. This species is notable for its gracefully drooping (hence the name pendula) yellow to orange flowers, each with darker sometimes spotted markings near the base of the petals, blooming in mid to late spring. Certainly unique in the genus, I am going to start doing some breeding with this wonderful genus and I can only hope that these genes will mix into the others, because I can imaging creating some super unique forms with this.
The slender, grass-like foliage emerges in late winter and grows rapidly in the cool season, going dormant with the onset of summer drought. In cultivation, Moraea pendula thrives in Mediterranean-type climates and is best grown in sharply drained soil, such as sandy loam or gritty compost, in full sun. It is particularly well-suited to container culture in a cold frame or alpine house, where its delicate flowers can be protected and appreciated up close.
Hardy to about USDA zone 9 (approx. 20°F / -6°C) if kept dry in winter, or it can be lifted and stored in colder climates. Like many South African geophytes, it benefits from a dry summer dormancy and should not be watered when dormant. A delightful and unusual choice for collectors of winter-growing bulbs or for adding spring interest to a Mediterranean-style garden.
(Syn: Homeria pendula)
An interesting South African bulbous perennial, Moraea pendula is native to the winter-rainfall regions of the Western Cape, where it grows on open, rocky slopes and flats in well-drained soils. This species is notable for its gracefully drooping (hence the name pendula) yellow to orange flowers, each with darker sometimes spotted markings near the base of the petals, blooming in mid to late spring. Certainly unique in the genus, I am going to start doing some breeding with this wonderful genus and I can only hope that these genes will mix into the others, because I can imaging creating some super unique forms with this.
The slender, grass-like foliage emerges in late winter and grows rapidly in the cool season, going dormant with the onset of summer drought. In cultivation, Moraea pendula thrives in Mediterranean-type climates and is best grown in sharply drained soil, such as sandy loam or gritty compost, in full sun. It is particularly well-suited to container culture in a cold frame or alpine house, where its delicate flowers can be protected and appreciated up close.
Hardy to about USDA zone 9 (approx. 20°F / -6°C) if kept dry in winter, or it can be lifted and stored in colder climates. Like many South African geophytes, it benefits from a dry summer dormancy and should not be watered when dormant. A delightful and unusual choice for collectors of winter-growing bulbs or for adding spring interest to a Mediterranean-style garden.
