About Dietes grandiflora N.E.Br.
Dietes grandiflora N.E.Br., commonly known as the fortnight lily, large wild iris, African iris, or fairy iris, is a rhizomatous perennial plant in the iris family (Iridaceae). It produces long, rigid, sword-shaped green leaves. In its native South Africa, this species is very common in horticulture, where it is often used for public gardens, commercial landscaping, and roadside plantings. Its flowers are white with yellow and violet markings, and can reach up to four inches (ten centimeters) in diameter. Dark markings are present at the base of the outer tepals. These flowers bloom abundantly in summer, especially after rain. Individual flowers last only a couple of days, and are followed by five-centimeter long green seed capsules. These capsules hold very dark brown seeds, which are dispersed once the capsule splits open. In cultivation, this plant prefers conditions ranging from dappled shade to full sun; it will flower in profusion under these light conditions, though it can also grow in shaded areas, where flower production will be reduced. Under favorable growing conditions, clumps of Dietes grandiflora multiply rapidly. This species is tolerant of drought and frost, which makes it very popular for mass plantings. It is commonly called fortnight lily because it typically blooms for two weeks, followed by two weeks of rest before the next flush of blooms.
