Contents
Description
Drimia Anomala is a stunning plant species that belongs to the family of Asparagaceae. It is also known as the Red Hot Poker, Giant Squill or Cape Squill. The plant is native to the Western and Eastern Cape Provinces of South Africa. It grows up to 1.5 meters tall and has a unique appearance with broad leaves that are approximately 40cm long, and tubular flowers that are about 1cm in diameter.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Asparagaceae |
| Genus | Drimia |
Appearance
Drimia Anomala is a beautiful plant with grey-green or blue-green leaves that grow up to 40cm long and 5cm wide. The leaves are broad and strap-like with a wavy margin. The plant produces a tall flower spike that can reach over 1.5 meters in height. The flowers are tubular and are about 1cm in diameter. They are usually pink or red but can also be white or yellow.
Care Guide
To care for Drimia Anomala, provide well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Water the plant regularly but avoid overwatering as it can lead to root rot. Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. The plant prefers full sun to partial shade and can tolerate temperatures as low as -7°C. It grows best in hardiness zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Drimia Anomala is relatively pest and disease-free if grown in the right conditions. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered. Spider mites and mealybugs can also infest the plant. To prevent pests and diseases, ensure that the plant is grown in well-draining soil and is not overwatered.
Habitat
Drimia Anomala is native to the Western and Eastern Cape Provinces of South Africa. It grows in rocky and sandy soils in fynbos and renosterveld vegetation types.
Questions and Answers
Q: Can I grow Drimia Anomala indoors?
A: Yes, you can grow Drimia Anomala indoors, but it requires bright light and well-draining soil.
Q: How often should I water Drimia Anomala?
A: Water Drimia Anomala regularly, but avoid overwatering as it can lead to root rot.
Q: Can Drimia Anomala be grown in pots?
A: Yes, Drimia Anomala can be grown in pots as long as the pot has good drainage and the plant is grown in well-draining soil.
Q: What is the best time to fertilize Drimia Anomala?
A: Fertilize Drimia Anomala once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Related Plants
- Drimia Maritima
- Drimia Elata
- Drimia Capensis
- Drimia Maculata
References
- PlantZAfrica. (n.d.). Drimia anomala. Retrieved from http://pza.sanbi.org/drimia-anomala
- Gardenia. (n.d.). Drimia anomala. Retrieved from https://www.gardenia.net/plant/drimia-anomala
- World Checklist of Selected Plant Families. (n.d.). Drimia anomala. Retrieved from http://wcsp.science.kew.org/namedetail.do?name_id=304734
