Melasphaerula is a cormous genus in the Iridaceae family with just one species, Melasphaerula ramosa. The name refers to the cormlets that form around the bell-shaped flat based corm. This species has erect, sword-shaped leaves, often with a purple midrib. Many small creamy white to pale yellow flowers are produced on a branched slender stem. This plant is widespread in the winter rainfall region of southen Africa, occuring from southern Namibia to the Agulhas Peninsula where it is found in sheltered shady places, often on cooler south or east facing hillsides. It is too easily cultivated in some climates where it can become weedy and is considered to be a "collector's" plant by some. Others appreciate its graceful elegance.
Return to the PBS wiki Photographs And Information page