Contents
Description
Watsonia Angusta, also known as the Cape Bugle Lily, is a flowering plant native to South Africa. It belongs to the family Iridaceae and is a perennial herb that grows up to 1 meter tall. It has long narrow leaves, and its flowers are trumpet-shaped and come in shades of pink, orange, and red.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Monocots |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Iridaceae |
| Genus | Watsonia |
Appearance
Watsonia Angusta has long and narrow leaves that grow up to 50cm long and 1cm wide. Its flowers are trumpet-shaped and grow in clusters atop tall stems. The flowers come in shades of pink, orange, and red and bloom from late spring to early summer. The plant grows up to 1 meter tall and spreads up to 50cm wide.
Care Guide
Water
Watsonia Angusta prefers well-draining soil and requires moderate watering. It is best to water the plant when the topsoil is dry to the touch. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so it is important to let the soil dry out between watering.
Fertilization
The plant benefits from regular fertilization during the growing season. Use a balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season to promote healthy growth and flowering.
Soil
Watsonia Angusta prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. It can tolerate a range of soils, but it is important to ensure that the soil is not waterlogged.
Sunlight
The plant requires full sun to partial shade. It thrives in a location that receives at least 6 hours of sunlight per day.
Hardiness Zones
Watsonia Angusta thrives in hardiness zones 8-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Watsonia Angusta is susceptible to spider mites, aphids, and thrips. Regular inspection of the plant can help prevent infestations. The plant is also susceptible to fungal diseases such as leaf spot and crown rot. Proper watering and pruning can help prevent these diseases.
Habitat
Watsonia Angusta is native to South Africa and grows in a variety of habitats including grasslands, woodlands, and rocky slopes. It prefers well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Watsonia Angusta deer-resistant?
A: Yes, Watsonia Angusta is deer-resistant.
Q: Can Watsonia Angusta be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Watsonia Angusta can be grown in containers. Ensure that the container has good drainage and is large enough to accommodate the plant’s growth.
Q: How often should I fertilize Watsonia Angusta?
A: Watsonia Angusta benefits from regular fertilization during the growing season. Use a balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season to promote healthy growth and flowering.
Q: Can Watsonia Angusta tolerate frost?
A: No, Watsonia Angusta cannot tolerate frost. It is best grown in hardiness zones 8-10.
Related Plants
- Watsonia Borbonica
- Watsonia Pillansii
- Watsonia Meriana
References
- “Watsonia Angusta.” PlantZAfrica, National Botanical Institute, 2004, http://pza.sanbi.org/watsonia-angusta.
- “Watsonia Angusta.” Missouri Botanical Garden, http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b529.
- “Watsonia.” Pacific Bulb Society, http://www.pacificbulbsociety.org/pbswiki/index.php/Watsonia.
