Photo of Watsonia coccinea flower by Annie's Annuals & Perennials

Photo by Annie's Annuals & Perennials

Used with permission, all rights reserved

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Watsonia coccinea

Plant type

perennial, bulb / corm / tuber

size

  • H: 12"
  • W: 12"

planting zones

  • 8a-10b

Watsonia coccinea plant details

Watsonia coccinea is a broadleaf deciduous perennial bulb / corm / tuber with green foliage. In spring pink, purple and red flowers emerge. Grows well with sun and regular water. Adapts to various soil conditions. Does well in well-drained soil. A good option if you're seeking something verticillium wilt resistant.

CHARACTERISTICS OF Watsonia coccinea

Plant type: perennial bulb / corm / tuber
Plant family: iridaceae
Foliage: deciduous green
Mature size: 12 IN wide, 12 IN tall
Flowers: pink, purple and red blooms in spring
Uses: showy, tropical-looking

GROWING CONDITIONS for Watsonia coccinea

USDA Zones: 8a - 10b
Sun exposure: sun
Watering frequency: regular
Resistant to: verticillium wilt
Soil needs: well-drained

Nursery contributed plant descriptions

A naturally petite Watsonia! Many of this species cousins get LARGE, but not so with this little-known species. One of the smallest Watsonias at only 1' high, it's also a pretty one – despite the name (coccinea means red) the flower color can be various shades or red, pink or purple. It's also not a spreader, so it's perfect for small gardens that wouldn't ordinarily be able to consider members of this genus. Like all Watsonias, though, it's perfectly paired with our climate! Dormant in Summer during the dry times, & growing in Winter & Spring with the naturally occurring rainfall. It's tolerant of many soil types, though some added drainage would benefit this species. A lovely container subject!

By: Annie's Annuals & Perennials

Gardening facts about Watsonia coccinea plant

How to Grow Watsonia coccinea

  • Sun Exposure

    • sun
  • Water Needs

    • regular
  • Soil Needs

    • adaptable
    • well-drained
  • Special Situation

    • verticillium wilt resistant

Features

  • Foliage Color

    • green
  • Flower Color

    • pink
    • red
    • purple
  • Flower Season

    • spring
  • Foliage Season

    • deciduous

See other plant types of Watsonia for your garden

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Plant Type

Perennial, Bulb / Corm / Tuber

Zones

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Size

Height: 3'-5'

Width: 2'-3'

  • sun - mostly sun
  • regular
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  • dry in summer
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Plant Type

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Zones

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Size

Height: 24"-48"

Width: 12"-18"

  • sun - mostly sun
  • regular
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aka Bugle Flower

Plant Type

Perennial, Bulb / Corm / Tuber

Zones

8a-10b

Size

Height: 24"-48"

Width: 12"

  • sun
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aka Table Mountain Watsonia

Plant Type

Perennial, Bulb / Corm / Tuber

Zones

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Size

Height: 4'-5'

Width: 12"

  • sun
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Zones

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Size

Height: 3'

Width: 8"

  • sun
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+12 more Watsonia
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