Common Names: wand flower
Origin: South Africa
Size: 3 to 5 ft. high in bloom.
Flowers: Deep magenta to almost white tubular funnel-shaped flowers 1.5 to 2.5 in. long; spring. Leaves are sword like, stiff, and 2 ft. long.
Uses: Color accent, borders, movement, in heat. Effective against background of dark green shrubs.
Wildlife: Attracts bees, birds, and butterflies. Deer resistive.
Soil: Rich, humus like, well-drained.
Water: Medium in growing season and to establish young plants.
Sun: Full sun out of wind at coast; some shade inland.
Pruning: Prune off flower heads to prevent self-seeding. Divide clumps into smaller groups if they get crowded and reduce blooms. Gently pull off old leaves.
Pests & Diseases: Red spider mites, rust fungi if too much shade. Use wire baskets to protect from rats.
Notes: Very slow growing. There are 44 African species of Dierama, the genus meaning, "funnel" or "like bell." Hardy to 5° F.