Baboon Flower (Babiana stricta)

Baboon Flower: A Hairy-Stemmed Cape Bulb

The Baboon Flower (Babiana stricta) is a charming cormous perennial from the Cape of South Africa. In spring, it produces short spikes of 3-6 cup-shaped, blue-violet to purple flowers (often with white markings) on distinctively hairy stems. The leaves are pleated, sword-shaped, and also hairy. The common name refers to baboons eating the corms.

Mediterranean Climate Bulb

Plant corms in autumn in full sun, sharply drained soil. It requires a dry summer dormancy. In wet or cold climates, grow in pots and store dry. Ideal for rock gardens, alpine troughs, and Mediterranean-style plantings. The hairy stems and pleated leaves add tactile interest. Synonyms: Gladiolus strictus, Ixia plicata.

Taxonomy

• Family: Iridaceae
• Genus: Babiana
• Species: stricta
• Synonyms: Gladiolus strictus, Ixia plicata