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Libertia perigrinans
| New Zealand members of the Iris family, their elegant fans of coarse, swordlike leaves spread by creeping rhizomes. Erect flower stems bear loose clusters of usually white, 3-cornered, cup-shaped flowers in late spring. Orange or yellow seeds brighten the plants in fall. Good for mixed borders or informal gardens. Frost-tender types such as Libertia caerulescens make good potted plants in a cool greenhouse. Many others tolerate frost down to 14º F, and Libertia formosa survives brief dips to 5º F. A smaller species, Libertia ixioides (Mikoikoi or Tukauki in Maori) makes a fine ground cover, especially when the leaves turn yellow in full sun. Plant in full sun near the coast, dappled shade inland. Need moist but well-drained, slightly acid soil. Mulch in areas near their temperature minimum. Can leave undisturbed for years. When plants age, lift in spring and divide, replanting in well-cultivated fertile soil. Fresh seeds germinate well, but slowly. |
Upright, burnt-orange leaf blades contrast pleasingly with green or gray ground covers. Spreads nicely along pathways, among rocks, or to fill a tub.
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Attributes - Libertia perigrinans
Plant Type: Perennial
Bloom Season: Late Spring through Late Summer
Flower Color: White
Foliage: Evergreen
Height: 1 ft. to 1 ft. 6 in.
Width: 3 ft.
Sunlight: Full Sun, Partial Sun
Climate: Zones 9, 10
Notes: Container Plants, Low Maintenance.
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