Fall in love with fynbos and lilies

Celebrate the last month of winter with vibrant lilies and spectacular fynbos.

Luxury lilies

• In the spotlight: The calla lily (Zantedeschia sp.) is a remarkable flowering plant that epitomises sophistication. Available in a variety of colours, these beauties perform best in full to semi-sun with moist soil. Grow them in containers on the patio or along bed edges to create a stylish, vibrant border. Transplant your calla lilies from the end of August followed by a monthly dose of fertiliser during their flowering period.

Top tip: Calla lilies require a dormant period once flowering has ceased. During this time, refrain from watering as much to allow the plant to die back.

• If you are looking for a local plant with personality and quirk, try the pineapple lily (Eucomis). This charmer is a miniature floral representation of the pineapple fruit, so you can only imagine the attitude this plant packs. They are very frost and cold tender, so grow them in containers where they can be moved when needed. Pineapple lilies enjoy well-prepared, deep soil in full sun spots.

• Shade-loving, butterfly attracting, showy and cut-flower perfect – it can only be the white spider lily (Hymenocallis speciosa). They boast umbels of white, sweetly scented blooms that rest dramatically upon tall bare stems. These odd yet elegant gems are ideal for beds under trees with dappled shade or indoors with bright natural light. Water them well during flowering in fast-draining soil.

Top local lily pick: Try the Cape’s George lily (Cyrtanthus elatus) and begin a red romance with this lovely, anywhere receiving full sun to semi-shade.

Fiery fynbos

Fynbos is a specific group of vegetation that is known as Proteaceae. Fynbos has expertly adapted over millions of years and has thus become the world’s most diverse plant habitat, even more than a tropical rainforest.

Proteas

• King Pink is our national flower and a dramatic addition to the garden. They enjoy full sun in beds and containers, are drought and frost-hardy, and make for stunning cut flowers. Enjoy their bold blooms from July to October every year.

Ericas

• Fairy Confetti is a sweetheart shrub with masses of tiny pink flowers that add happiness to the garden. Their pretty blooms can be expected from spring, along with the many indigenous wildlife visitors they attract. Plant then in full sun in beds or pots.

Leucospermums

• The Scarlet Ribbon is a vigorous grower with no shortage of blooms. Their intricate flower heads will bring any bed or container to life with striking red, orange, and yellow details. Grow then in full sun and enjoy their flowering time from September.

Leucadendron range

• Inca Gold is a decorative foliage plant with bright green, lime/yellow leaves that contrast perfectly with their pink edges. Grow them in full sun beds where you can look forward to a unique flower show from November to September.

Top tip: Fynbos love organic, rich dirt and thrive in sandstone derived, acidic soil with good drainage and no manure.  

Top tip: Mulch your plants with acid compost once a year and remember to prune your fynbos after flowering or before spring for nice full growth.

Hanging basket bulker: Plant begonia ‘Dragon Wings’ in shades of light pink and reds for added hanging basket cuteness in full to semi-sun areas. 

Source: Life is a Garden