Moraea polystachya

The genus

Almost all of the155 Moraea species occur south of the Sahara and about 2/3 south of the Zambesi /Cunene rivers. The majorty are wintergrowers and dormant in the summer, while about 40 species are summer rainfallgrowers originating from subtropical regions. Several Moraea have only a very small distribution area and are in danger of extinction. Fortunately those endangered species are now cultivated and are safeguarded from disappearing forever. Many species make good garden plants. Wintergrowers prefer mediterranean regions or pots elsewhere. The summer growers are also suitable for gardens in colder regions. The flower all have the typical "iris" form but with a most interesting variation of colours. A typical feature are the colourful nectar guides at the base of the outer petals especially designed to attract and guide the pollinators. Very few offshoots are formed and multiplication is largely by seed. A curiosity about Linné and Moraea from www.plantzafrica.com: Derivation of name and historical background The name Moraea was originally Morea, given by Philip Miller to honour Robert More of Shropshire, but Linnaeus altered it to Moraea. His wife's name was Sara Elizabeth Moraea and her father, Dr Johan Moraeus.