Baboon flower (Babiana nervosa)

Baboon flower

The delightful aroma and freesia-like flowers of the baboon flower have earned it The Royal Horticultural Society’s Garden Merit Award. This plant is commonly called the baboon flower because it’s a favored food of baboons in South Africa. The flowers smell like lemons and can be grown in pots for display in gardens and patios.

Scientific classification

Species

Baboon flower (Babiana nervosa)

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Perennial

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Spring, Summer

Bloom Time

15 cm to 46 cm

Plant Height

8 cm to 15 cm

Spread

Semi-evergreen

Leaf type

15 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Spring, Summer

Growth Season

Images of Baboon flower

Distribution of Baboon flower

Distribution Map

Baboon flower is native to the southwestern part of the African continent, where it thrives in the regional climate. This species has also been introduced to other regions for cultivation due to its attractive features, thereby expanding its range beyond its indigenous habitat.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Quickly Identify Baboon flower

Funnel-formed, aromatic blooms in blue or purple hues with tubular petals (1-2 inches / 2.5-5 cm)

Slender, erect stem reaching 1-2 feet (30-60 cm), supporting clusters of 6-12 flowers

Spikelike cluster arrangement of flowers resembling freesias, attracting pollinators with lemon scent

Dry capsules with oblong shape (0.4-0.8 inches / 1-2 cm) releasing numerous wind-dispersed seeds

Thrives in full sunlight, well-drained soil conditions, spaced 2-6 inches (5-15 cm) apart, adaptable to heat

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Care Guide for Baboon flower

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

15 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Baboon flower thrives with a consistent weekly watering schedule, balancing moisture without requiring constant dampness or extreme drought. Primarily outdoors, its flowering cycle is responsive to seasonal rainfall, reflecting its adaptation to its native habitat's moisture patterns.

Fertilize: For baboon flower, use balanced, low-dose fertilizers monthly during growth to enhance vigor and health. Avoid over-fertilization to protect roots and reduce feeding in dormancy. Dilute and distribute fertilizer evenly, promoting thriving growth for all experience levels.

Pruning: Baboon flower produces vibrant flowers and sword-shaped leaves, thriving in well-drained soil. Prune in early to late spring after flowering to promote growth and remove dead foliage. Use clean tools for pruning to prevent infection, enhancing flowering and overall vigor.

Propagation: Baboon flower can be propagated by division. After the foliage dies back, dig up clumps, separate the bulbs, and replant at the same depth. Ensure adequate spacing for growth to promote healthy expansion of baboon flower in your landscape.

Repotting: Repot baboon flower every 2-3 years, ideally late winter after dormancy. Select a container one size larger with good drainage. After repotting, position baboon flower in bright, indirect sunlight and resume watering once new growth appears to ensure a smooth transition.

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