Botanical name

Moraea lugubris

Family

Iridaceae

Common Name

Kersblakertjie
Moraea lugubris
Moraea lugubris
Moraea lugubris
Moraea lugubris
Moraea lugubris
Moraea lugubris

Description

Cormous geophyte up to 16cm. Leaves 2, linear, channelled, glossy green. Flowers deep blue with the tepals all similar and spreading, enclosed by glossy acute spathes; conspicuous feathery style branches, pollen red. Flowers lasting only one day.

The common name Kersblakertjie (Afrik: small candlestick) refers to the projecting style crests which resemble small candlesticks.

Plants of this species are quite small and are easily overlooked.

Habitat

Mostly damp sandstone soils

Flower Date

August to November mostly after fire