Belamcanda chinensis - Herbaceous Plants,Perennial - Blackberry Lily, Blackberry-lily, Leopard flower, Leopard Lily Page

Belamcanda chinensis, also known as Blackberry Lily, Leopard Flower, and Leopard Lily, is an eye-catching ornamental plant in the Iridaceae family. Its deep orange, lily-like flowers are heavily spotted with red dots and bloom in early to mid-summer on wiry, naked stems that can reach up to 3 feet tall. The blackberry-like seed clusters that develop after blooming give rise to the plant's common name. Belamcanda chinensis is easy to grow in average, medium, well-drained soils in full sun but prefers moist soils. However, poorly-drained soils can be fatal for the plant, particularly during winter. It spreads slowly by creeping rhizomes and may self-seed under optimum growing conditions. Best sown as soon as they are ripe, Belamcanda chinensis seeds can be germinated in a cold frame in 2-8 weeks. It can be divided in spring or early autumn. Larger divisions can be planted straight into their permanent positions, while smaller clumps are best potted up and kept in a cold frame until they are growing well. This short-lived perennial makes a beautiful addition to any garden.