Ferraria schaeferi 'Dark Chocolate'

Plant type

bulb / corm / tuber

size

H: 8"-12"
W: 3"-12"

planting zones

8a-11

More Options

Ferraria schaeferi 'Dark Chocolate' plant details

Ferraria schaeferi 'Dark Chocolate' is a broadleaf deciduous bulb / corm / tuber with green foliage. In spring burgundy, chocolate and cream flowers emerge. Attracts bees making it an excellent addition to pollinator gardens. Grows well with sun - mostly sun and regular - low water. Drought tolerant once established. Prefers to be dry in summer, dry when dormant. Does well in average, gritty and well-drained soil. A good option if you're seeking something verticillium wilt resistant.

CHARACTERISTICS OF Ferraria schaeferi 'Dark Chocolate'

Plant type: bulb / corm / tuber
Plant family: iridaceae
Foliage: deciduous green
Mature size: 3 IN - 12 IN - wide, 8 IN - 12 IN - tall
Flowers: burgundy, chocolate and cream blooms in spring

GROWING CONDITIONS for Ferraria schaeferi 'Dark Chocolate'

USDA Zones: 8a - 11
Sun exposure: sun - mostly sun
Watering frequency: regular - low
Resistant to: verticillium wilt
Soil needs: average, gritty and well-drained

Nursery contributed plant descriptions

If you like super freaky plants AND dessert, this plant is your new holy grail. Admittedly, some people think this dashing Iris relative’s curious blooms smell less like rich vanilla custard and more like something’s gone awry with rich vanilla custard, but it’s a worthwhile gamble. As far as I’m concerned, Ferrarias smell AMAAAAZING. This one has deep chocolaty maroon color around a creamy white center, with ruffled edging the shade of milk chocolate. Ferrarias grow EASILY here in our mild Mediterranean climate, increasing rapidly every year and giving you many tubers to spread the joy around. Well draining soil and a dry Summer rest is advised, though Ferrarias are less fussy than many Winter rainfall adapted South African bulbs. Each 1.5” flower lasts only a day and bloom season lasts a few weeks in Spring when the plants are tallest in their growth – around 1’ high.