Dwarf Watsonia (Watsonia coccinea) is a charming perennial bulb with vibrant scarlet to orange-red flowers, native to the Cape provinces of South Africa. Grows to 30-60 c
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun
100% intensity
Prefers a location that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal flowering.
Moderate
50% intensity
Allow soil to dry slightly between waterings during growth, reduce significantly during dormancy.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Prefers moderate temperatures during the growing season. Protect from frost.
Outdoor
50% intensity
Low
25% intensity
Feed sparingly with a balanced liquid fertilizer during the growing season.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water moderately during the growing season, typically spring and early summer. Allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Reduce watering significantly as the foliage begins to yellow and die back in late summer, signaling dormancy. Ensure well-draining soil to prevent bulb rot.
Remove spent flower stalks immediately after blooming to prevent seed formation and direct energy back into the bulb. Cut back yellowing and dying foliage in late summer or early autumn once it has naturally withered.
This tidies the plant and prevents disease.
Propagation is primarily achieved by dividing the corms (underground storage organs) during their dormant period in late summer or early autumn. Carefully separate the offsets and replant them immediately.
Seeds can be sown but take longer to germinate and mature.
Repotting is generally not required annually. If grown in containers, repot every 2-3 years in late summer or early autumn during dormancy.
Use fresh, well-draining potting mix and a pot that is only slightly larger than the previous one to avoid overwatering issues.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Dwarf Watsonia (Watsonia coccinea)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Iridaceae |
| Genus | Watsonia |
| Species | Watsonia coccinea |
Similar in genus Watsonia
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
