Full Sun
Advanced care
Light watering
Tender
12a
USDA zone
10°C
Minimum temperature
Expected size
Height | Spread | |
|---|---|---|
10m | Max | 5m |
1m | Min | 1m |
Flowering
spring
summer
autumn
winter
This plant has no fragrance
More images
Overview
This small but distinctive genus comprises 5 evergreen, clumping perennials from South Africa. Foliage is large and glossy, resembling that of banana plants from the genus Musa. Large, long-stalked leaves form a "trunk" that can grow up to 10m tall. Inflorescences consist of horizontal, boat-shaped spathes, from which colourful, crest-like flowers arise sequentially. These plants are commonly grown as ornamental houseplants, and are particularly long-lasting when cut. Perhaps the most well-known species is S. reginae known as the Crane Flower. The seeds are toxic to dogs.
Common problems
Companion plants
Plant with shrubs and trees or as a stand-alone specimens.
Propagation
Division
Divide strong plants in cool weather.
Seed
Sow in spring/summer.
Suckers
Special Features
Attractive flowers
Attracts birds
Sunbirds may be the pollinators, but this is unproven and other birds eat and disperse the seeds.
Attracts bees
Drought resistant
Once established, the plants are drought tolerant.
Pot plant
Can be grown in large pots.
Uses
Ornamental
Used in landscaping as an architectural plant and focal point.
Floristry
The flowers are grown commercially and used in the cut flower industry.
