Also known as Rice Flower · Water Phlox · Water Spikelily
Marsh Spikelily (Wurmbea stricta) is a delicate herbaceous perennial native to South Africa, recognized for its slender stems and starry white to pale pink flowers.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Moderate
50% intensity
Prefers bright, indirect light. Can tolerate some direct morning sun.
Moderate
50% intensity
Keep soil moist during growth, reduce in dormancy.
Sandy, Loamy, Well-drained
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Enjoys average room temperatures during the growing season, cooler during dormancy.
Outdoor
50% intensity
Low
25% intensity
Light feeding during active growth, none during dormancy.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water generously during the growing season, especially when the plant is in flower. Allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Reduce watering significantly during its dormant period, keeping the soil just barely moist to prevent corm rot. Ensure good drainage to avoid waterlogging.
Remove spent flower stalks and any yellowing or dead foliage as it appears to maintain a tidy appearance and prevent disease. This can be done throughout the growing season.
No significant structural pruning is usually required for this species.
Propagation is typically done by dividing the corms in late summer or early autumn when the plant is dormant. Separate healthy corms carefully and replant them in well-draining soil.
Seed propagation is possible but slower and less common for home gardeners.
Repotting is best done when the plant is dormant, usually in late summer or early autumn. Repot every 2-3 years or when the corms have become crowded.
Use a well-draining potting mix and ensure the new pot provides adequate space for corm expansion.
Identify plants like this with ePlant AI
Snap a photo to get care tips and match similar species on the go.
Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Marsh Spikelily (Wurmbea stricta)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Liliales |
| Family | Colchicaceae |
| Genus | Wurmbea |
| Species | Wurmbea stricta |
Similar in genus Wurmbea
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
