Orthrosanthus laxus
A clump-forming, evergreen perennial to around 60cm high, with woody rhizomes and narrow, grass-like, linear leaves with rough edges. Wiry, branching stems bear pale violet blue, saucer-shaped flowers, that open in succession from late spring to early summer
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Size
Ultimate height
0.5–1 metresTime to ultimate height
2–5 yearsUltimate spread
0.1–0.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Well–drainedpH
Acid, Neutral, AlkalineColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Blue Purple | Green | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Blue Purple | Green | ||
| Autumn | Green | |||
| Winter | Green |
Position
- Full sun
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Exposed or ShelteredDrought resistance
Yes Hardiness
H3Botanical details
- Family
- Iridaceae
- Native to the UK
- No
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Habit
- Clump forming
- Genus
Orthrosanthus are perennials with narrow leaves arising from short, woody rhizomes. Bowl- or saucer-shaped, blue flowers in loose, terminal spikes appear in late spring and early summer
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- SW Australia
How to grow
Cultivation
Thrives in light, well-drained, humus-rich soil in full sun. In colder areas, grow under glass or in containers that can be moved indoors over winter, in peat-free, loam-based compost with added sharp sand in full light. Water moderately in growth and keep almost dry when dormant
Propagation
Propagate by seed, sown at 13-18°C, or by division in spring
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Cottage and informal garden
- Gravel garden
- Patio and container plants
Pruning
No pruning required
Pests
Generally pest-free
Diseases
Generally disease-free
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