Position – Sun or part shade
Soil – Well-drained
Flowering Period – Summer
Hardiness – Fully hardy to hardy
Belamcanda are also known as the Blackberry Lily and are a close relative to the bearded Iris. They are grown for their stunning cup-shaped golden blooms that are formed upon clumps of green sword-shaped foliage. In the autumn, attractive pod heads appear which split to reveal clusters of black seeds. They are best suited to lower borders and beds within a courtyard coastal or informal garden setting. You should expect Belamcanda to grow to an approximate height and spread of between 45-60cm (18-24”).
Belamcanda are best planted in moist, well-drained soil of loam and clay within an acidic, alkaline or neutral PH balance. Belamcanda can be planted at any time so long as the ground is not frozen. Choose an appropriate site that has access to sheltered sunlight or part shade. You may wish to amend the planting area with compost to enrich and improve the drainage.
For varieties that are not so hardy, it is recommended to protect your plant in a layer of mulch to protect from colder climates. If frost is imminent, you may wish to site Belamcanda in a warmer environment. Once in active growth, provide supplemental water once a week or as needed, especially during periods of drought. You should cut back your plant to ground level during the autumn to encourage further growth and development.
It is possible to propagate Belamcanda by seed in a cold frame or by division during the spring.
