Orthrosanthus, Plant Profile and Landscaping Uses
Orthrosanthus are a flowering grass like plant, with iris like flowers they are an evergreen perennial with strappy foliage. Species originate from Mexico, Australia and South America so a little variety exists within the genus.
Tall growing to around 1m Orthrosanthus multiflorus has flowers forming on spikes in spring to summer. Best planted in a clump in the border or in a rock garden. Mass plantings as a flowering border or edging plant also work well.
Growing well in part to light shade Orthrosanthus are best in a position with some protection from very hot drying afternoon sun although they are fairly drought tolerant.
Best divided every 2 – 3 years to help maintain vigour. Generally sold by wholesale growers as tubestock, however also available in advanced sizes.
Varieties include:
These species are all from Western Australia and are readily available from wholesale growers.
- O. multiflorus – Most widely offered and the taller growing type, from South Western Australia
- O. laxus nana or ‘Dwarf Morning Iris’
- O. muelleri or South Sterling Morning Iris
- O. polystachyus
WHOLESALE ORTHROSANTHUS NURSERIES
CARAWAH NURSERY
15 Falls Road Hoddles Creek Victoria 3139
phone: 59674244 fax: 59674239
TJ’S WHOLESALE PLANTS
Cranbourne South, Victoria
Phone (03) 97830733