Painted petal (Lapeirousia)

Painted petal

Painted petal are cormous plants, usually small, and with deciduous leaves. The corms are small, campanulate to triangular in outline, and flat-based. The leaves are basal, often solitary. They may be plane and falcate, or linear and ribbed. The inflorescence is a spike, sometimes contracted and fasciculate or a corymbose panicle. The fruit is a membranous capsule containing many small seeds, either globose or angled by pressure. Some forty species have been described from sub-Saharan Africa, of which about a third are endemic to fynbos.

Scientific classification

Genus

Painted petal (Lapeirousia)

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Deciduous

Leaf type

Summer

Growth Season

Images of Painted petal

Species

Lapeirousia oreogena Purple corn-lily Long kabong Lapeirousia silenoides Catclaw kabong Hare kabong

Quickly Identify Painted petal

Basal sword-shaped leaves, 4-12 inches (10-30 cm) long, with a smooth texture.

Small fragrant flowers, 1-2 inches (2.5-5 cm) across, in vibrant colors.

Membranous fruit capsules with small seeds, drying to brown or tan.

Cormous nature with underground tubers, not exceeding 2 feet (60 cm) in height.

Flowering period in early summer with intricate petals and lily-like patterns.

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Care Guide for Painted petal

Every week

Water

Water: Painted petal thrives on a moderate watering schedule, reflecting its natural habitat of seasonal rainfall. It prefers evenly moist soil, requiring weekly watering. Consider rain's impact on care, as excessive precipitation can lessen manual watering needs, especially during the growing season.

Propagation: Propagation of painted petal primarily involves seed sowing, requiring full sun, warmth, and well-draining soil. Scarification of seeds enhances germination, and careful handling during transplant is crucial due to delicate roots. The process is moderately difficult, demanding optimal conditions and seed treatment.

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Learn More About Painted petal

How to Grow and Care

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