Micranthus alopecuroides

Micranthus alopecuroides. Iridaceae. Swordleaf Combflower. Cormous geophyte up to 40cm. Leaves sword-shaped with a distinct mid-vein, 5-12mm wide. Flowers in closely set two-ranked spikes, pale to deep-blue; bracts dry, rigid, brown with broad membranous margins. Sowing: Seed is sown in autumn, thinly, in deep (min. 10 cm) seed trays, to allow for root development. The soil medium should be well drained, a recommended mix being 2 parts sand: 2 parts compost: 1 part loam or equal parts sand and compost, and the seeds should be planted 3-4 mm deep, covered with clean sand and kept moist and lightly shaded. Locality: Stellenbosh.  Harvest: December 2023