Blue flies - Aristea ecklonii (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images)

Blue flies

Also known as: Star capeblue, Blue-eyed iris

Native to South Africa, blue flies is an evergreen species that grows from bulbs and self-seeds. It grows in small clumps of grassy mounds with blue flowers that thrive in full to part sun.

Scientific classification

Species

Blue flies (Aristea ecklonii)

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Perennial, Annual

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Spring, Summer

Bloom Time

2.5 cm

Flower Size

Silver

Fruit Color

Purple, Blue

Flower Color

Green, Gray, Silver, Purple

Stem Color

Evergreen

Leaf type

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Blue flies

Distribution of Blue flies

Distribution Map

Blue flies, a plant primarily native to the eastern regions of the African continent, has been introduced and cultivated in various parts of Asia, Oceania, and to a lesser extent, in the northern hemisphere. Its presence spans across a blend of temperate to tropical zones, demonstrating its adaptability beyond its original habitat.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Shrubland, Forest, Streambanks and on rocky, bare land

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Care Guide for Blue flies

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Blue flies thrives in moist grasslands, preferring consistent moisture without waterlogging. Weekly watering mimics natural precipitation. As an evergreen, blue flies needs steady hydration to maintain foliage year-round, particularly outdoors where weather varies.

Fertilize: Blue flies thrives with balanced fertilizers and high phosphorus formulations for enhanced flowering. Use a 20-20-20 blend monthly in spring and summer, switching to high phosphorus during budding. In colder months, apply bi-monthly and always water thoroughly after fertilization to prevent root burn.

Pruning: Blue flies features beautiful blue flowers and grass-like leaves. Prune in late winter to early spring, removing dead stems and spent flowers to enhance growth and bloom duration. Use sharp tools for clean cuts, and avoid over-pruning for optimal density and vibrancy.

Propagation: Blue flies can be propagated by sowing mature seeds in well-draining soil. Sow seeds shallowly for light exposure, and maintain consistent temperature and moisture without waterlogging. Once seedlings are sturdy, transplant them into individual containers or their final growing locations.

Repotting: Repot blue flies every 2-3 years in a slightly larger pot with well-draining medium, preferably in early spring. After repotting, place blue flies in bright, indirect light and resume watering when new growth starts to maintain healthy sword-shaped foliage and vibrant blue blooms.

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