The Morea aristata – Peacock Iris
Morea are mainly from South Africa and are fairly easy to grow. A delightful group of flowering bulb who’s flowers resemble those of an iris, Morea aristata and Morea papilionacea are both popular and are originally from South Africa.
Morea Varieties
A number or varieties are available for sale, some with spectacular flowers.
Morea aristata (syn glaucopsis)
Morea aristata (syn glaucopsis) with its attractive blue and white flowers is a standout in the genus. Large white petals with attractive ‘blue eyes’ on each. A deep indigo blue with a turquoise inner and inside that a deep indigo base. The outstanding flowers give it the name of ‘Peacock Moraea’, ‘Blue eyed Moraea’ as well as ‘Peacock Iris’..
Flowers are large to 6cm across and these easy care spring flowering bulbs make an excellnet plant either in a container or in the garden.
Moraea papilionacea
A little varied in flower colour with the salmon pink variety being more common than the yellow form. One variety with yellow petals and salmon pink tepals is available however very rare in cultivation.
How To Grow Morea aristata – Basic Care
A sunny well drained position is about all you will need for Morea aristata, it will also grow well in pots. Once planted and watered in Moraea require a dry dormancy from summer to autumn.
- Best planted in full sun.
- A humus rich well drained soil.
- Plant bulbs at around 5 cm deep and 10 cm apart.
- Water in well and mulch around the plant.
Summary
- Full Sun
- Humus rich soil
- Dry summer
- Water in well with a liquid seaweed fertilzer
- Divide pot grown plants every 3 years.
Available for sale from the folowing nurseries
'Sylvan Vale' 375 Olinda Creek Rd, Kalorama, VIC.3766
Including a large range of Rare and unusual bulbs, corms and perennials
www.tonkinsbulbs.com.au
PO Box 7040 Leura NSW 2780
Rare woodland plants, Trilliums Epimediums, Arisaemas, plus much more.www.lynnsrareplants.com.au