Aristea capitata

Also Known As

Aristea capitata syn major
Aristea major

Plant type

perennial, bulb / corm / tuber

size

H: 3'-5'
W: 2'-3'

planting zones

8b-11

More Options

Aristea capitata plant details

Aristea capitata is a broadleaf evergreen perennial bulb / corm / tuber with green foliage. In fall, spring and summer blue flowers emerge. Features grassy texture. Attracts bees making it an excellent addition to pollinator gardens. Grows well with sun - mostly sun and even moisture - low water. Drought tolerant once established. Prefers to be dry in summer. Adapts to various soil conditions. Does well in average, clay, gritty, rich and well-drained soil. A good option if you're seeking something verticillium wilt resistant.

CHARACTERISTICS OF Aristea capitata

Plant type: perennial bulb / corm / tuber
Plant family: iridaceae
Foliage: evergreen green
Mature size: 2 FT - 3 FT - wide, 3 FT - 5 FT - tall
Flowers: blue blooms in fall, spring and summer
Uses: clumping, container plant, rare

GROWING CONDITIONS for Aristea capitata

USDA Zones: 8b - 11
Sun exposure: sun - mostly sun
Watering frequency: even moisture - low
Resistant to: deer and snail / slug, verticillium wilt
Soil needs: average, clay, gritty, rich and well-drained

Nursery contributed plant descriptions

An intriguing group of blue-flowered irids, mostly from South Africa. This species we once thought too tender for permanent planting in the ground in these parts, but they have thriven for many years now, giving us courage. Easy in average garden conditions, luscious with summer water. Bright green iris-like leaves to 2 ft or a bit more with clusters of sky-blue flowers from spring through fall -- all from the small inflorescence, so don't cut them back. Evergreen to the upper teens F, upper USDA zone 8; regrowing, especially with mulch, from 10F or so. Bright light is best. We find these most outstanding when planted with yellow foliage nearby.

By: Cistus Nursery

See this electrifying gentian blue spike? It’s bigger than you think! I am so excited about this South African member of the Iris family, I can’t stand it! True blue, 1” flowers with yellow stamens form dense, crowded clusters near the top of 3’ tall, thick stalks. Even better, masses of eight or more of these glorious spikes rise above a carefree, evergreen 3’ x 2’ dense clump of upright Iris-like foliage that always looks great. Striking & architectural, highly drought & CLAY tolerant, deer resistant & snail-proof it’s rewarding in any garden – even parking strips. Provide some drainage & compost for best show. Cut back stalks after flowering. May reseed.