Position – Full sun
Soil – Moist, well-drained
Flowering Period – Summer
Hardiness – Hardy
Dierama are delicate, evergreen and clump-forming cormous perennials with long and slender arching stems that are adorned with bell-shaped blooms that rise through puffs of lush grassy foliage. These plants have a flowering period between June and August, making them the perfect summer staple. Dierama look fantastic in both borders and containers within a cottage or informal garden setting and are well suited next to ornamental grasses. They are also an attractive feature near water, although dislike excessive winter wet. These plants will grow to an approximate height of 90-100cm (36-40”) and a spread of 30-50cm (12-20”).
Dierama are best planted in the spring and should be grown in fertile, moist yet well-drained soil of loam. Clay and sandy soil types are also suitable but may be improved upon by adding a generous amount of organic matter. Ensure that you position your plants in an open area that will attract the attention of full sunlight.
Dierama will need to be watered thoroughly throughout active growth, especially during periods of dry weather. Just after planting, apply a generous amount of general purpose fertiliser to encourage optimum health and growth during the flowering period. Dierama will need very little pruning, although you may wish to remove old or dead foliage to improve its overall appearance. This should be undertaken during the spring.
It is possible to propagate Dierama by seed as soon as it is ripe. These can be planted out in the following spring and can take five years to bloom. Alternatively, you can propagate by division in the spring or immediately after the flowering period. Divided plants can take up to two years to flower.
