Thereianthus bracteolatus

Thereianthus bracteolatus

Family: Iridaceae

Common names: Somerpypie, Bloupypie

It is a geophyte up to 30cm. Leaves cylindrical and without prominent veins, up to 15cm long, sometimes withering at flowering time. Sturdy stem bears 7-14 deep blue to purple, rarely white, flowers in a spirally arranged spike; bracts are hard and brown.

Sowing instructions: 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: Rooi Els. Harvest: April 2025