Babiana Sambucina
Contents
Description
Babiana Sambucina is a plant species native to South Africa. It is a member of the Iridaceae family and is commonly known as the Baboon Flower. This plant species is highly sought after for its beautiful flowers which bloom in a range of colors from pink to blue, purple, and red. Babiana Sambucina is a bulbous plant that grows up to 30cm tall and can produce up to 20 flowers per stem.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Iridaceae |
| Genus | Babiana |
Appearance
Babiana Sambucina has long, narrow, green leaves that emerge from the base of the stem. The flowers of this plant are trumpet-shaped and can grow up to 3cm in diameter. The color of the flowers varies from pink to blue, purple, and red. The flowers have a darker center and lighter outer petals, giving them a striking appearance. The plant blooms from late winter to early spring.
Care Guide
To care for Babiana Sambucina, you should:
Water: Water the plant regularly during the growing season, but do not allow the soil to become waterlogged.
Fertilization: Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season to encourage healthy growth and abundant blooms.
Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate slightly acidic to slightly alkaline soil conditions.
Sunlight: Babiana Sambucina prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade but may not bloom as profusely.
Hardiness Zones: This plant is hardy in USDA zones 8 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Babiana Sambucina is susceptible to a few common pests and diseases, including:
Spider mites: These pests can cause yellowing and stippling of the leaves. Use an insecticidal soap to control them.
Thrips: These pests can cause the flowers to become distorted and discolored. Use an insecticidal soap to control them.
Crown rot: This disease is caused by overwatering and poor soil drainage. Avoid overwatering and ensure that the soil has good drainage to prevent this disease.
Habitat
Babiana Sambucina is native to South Africa and is found in the Western Cape and Eastern Cape provinces. It grows in a range of habitats, including fynbos, renosterveld, and sandveld. The plant prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate some drought.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I fertilize Babiana Sambucina?
A: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season.
Q: Can I grow Babiana Sambucina indoors?
A: No, this plant is not suitable for indoor growing.
Q: Can I divide Babiana Sambucina bulbs?
A: Yes, you can divide the bulbs in the fall when the plant is dormant.
Q: How long do Babiana Sambucina flowers last?
A: The flowers can last up to two weeks.
Related Plants
Other plants in the Babiana genus include:
- Babiana ambigua
- Babiana angustifolia
- Babiana blanda
- Babiana disticha
References
- “Babiana Sambucina.” PlantZAfrica.com. Accessed August 5, 2021. https://www.plantzafrica.com/plantab/babianasamb.htm.
- “Baboon Flower.” Gardening Know How. Accessed August 5, 2021. https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/bulbs/baboon-flower/baboon-flower-care.htm.
- “Babiana.” Pacific Bulb Society. Accessed August 5, 2021. https://www.pacificbulbsociety.org/pbswiki/index.php/Babiana.
