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Blue stars
Aristea eklonii
Blousterre (Afr.)
One of the most beautiful sights to see on the slopes of Lion’s Head is masses of Aristea capitata in full bloom. Like its close relative, the Iris, it produces thick clumps of long thin leaves tapering to a point. During the flowering period numerous continuous flower-stalks emerge from each clump with multiple tubular purple flowers creating an eruption of purple in the garden.
Planning
Difficulty
Easy
Flowering time
Spring
Fruiting time
Summer
Harvesting
Harvest Seed pods and sow seeds straight after the pods have dried out.
Propagation
Seed
Sow seeds to a depth of 2-4 mm straight after the seed pods have dried out completely.
Division
Divide thick clumps while dormant.
Special features
Attracts birds
Attracts small nectar loving sunbirds.
Attracts useful insects
Attracts beneficial insects like bees and butterflies.
Drought resistant
As it only grows during the warm dry summer months and dormant during the wet months.
Geography
Origin
Africa, South Africa, Eastern Cape, KZN, Limpopo, Mpumalanga Provinces.
Natural climate
Temperate Coastal
Environment
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Soil moisture
Dry
Soil type
Loam
Soil PH preference
Acid
Frost hardiness
Tender
Personality
Family
Iridaceae
Flower colour
Blue/ Purple
Scent
None
Problems
Fynbos plants become vulnerable to fungal attacks. To ensure your plants do not become affected by fungal attack, keep your plants dry during summer months.
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