BELAMCANDA

(Belam'canda)

DESCRIPTION: This group, commonly known as Blackberry Lilies and Leopard Lilies, consists of two species of hardy, tuberous-rooted perennials, which are natives of Japan and China. Blackberry Lilies, which belong to the Iris family, Iridaceae, produce short, flat fans of broad, Iris-like leaves. In the summer, 2- to 3-foot, branching stems bear 2-inch-wide, crimson-speckled, orange flowers. The blossoms last a long time over the summer season. Once the flowers have faded, the capsules expand and eventually split open to reveal round, shiny black seeds clustered like blackberries, thus one of the common names. The berries persist over the winter and are attractive as cut decorations for the vase in the fall and in dried arrangements. B. chinensis is the most widely available species. B. flabellata has pure yellow flowers. Blackberry Lilies are suitable for growing outdoors even in regions where the temperatures dip to -10º F. They are also lovely growing in containers in any climate.

POTTING: Blackberry Lilies are hardy from zones 5 to 10. They should be grown in rich, sandy loam and watered well during active growth. In the spring or early fall, plant the tuberous roots an inch deep and 6 inches apart, in a sunny or lightly shaded area. They will bloom better in full sun, but will tolerate light shade. B. flabellata prefers some shade and more water than B. chinensis. Place protective mulch over the plants in the fall, except in areas with mild winters. The roots can also be lifted from the garden, or left in their containers, to store in a frost-free place (35ºto 41º F) for the winter, especially in zones colder than they can tolerate.

PROPAGATION: Blackberry Lilies can be increased by dividing the roots in the spring. Seeds may also be sown outdoors in the spring or summer, no later than 2 months before the first frost. The seedlings will usually flower the first season.

SPECIES: B. chinensis; B. flabellata.

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