Dietes iridioides
African Iris
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African Iris (Dietes iridioides) - Description
D. iridioides is native from East Africa. It bears waxy white flowers with yellow-orange spots.
African Iris (Dietes iridioides) - Blooming
Flowers look very similar to Japanese Irises and come in colors such as white, cream, yellow with blotches of orange, yellow or brown. Flowers appear from spring through fall; however, in more mild-winter climates they may flower well into winter.
African Iris (Dietes iridioides) - Growth
Evergreen perennials with rhizomes. Fortnight Lilies do well in full sun, or full light, or partial shade. In areas where Dietes is not growing hardy, raise plants in a cool greenhouse with a minimum temperature of 35°F (2°C). During the day, set temperatures between 41-50°F (5-10°C), and at night, keep the temperature at 36°F (2°C). In warmer areas, Dietes can be grown outdoors where it works well in a border.
African Iris (Dietes iridioides) - Planting
To propagate divide clusters in the fall or winter. Division entails propagating a plant by splitting it into 2 or more parts. Each part has its own root system and more than one shoot or dormant bud. Although bare rhizomes are generally not sold, you can transplant container-grown Fortnight Lilies any time of year. Set them in the ground 2 ft. apart.
African Iris (Dietes iridioides) - Pest
Crow and root rots along with rust are common problems.
African Iris (Dietes iridioides) - Interesting facts
The common name "Fortnight Lily" comes from the tendency of species of this genus to produce clusters of flowers every 2 weeks.
African Iris (Dietes iridioides) - Soil and irrigation
Good, well-drained soil and regular water helps members of this genus to look good as it is getting established. Once established, Fortnight Lilies perform well in all varieties of soil with infrequent watering, especially after flowering. Keep just moist during dormancy. Indoors, grow in a soil-based potting mix.
