Dietes bicolor, commonly known as African iris or Fortnight lily, is a rhizomatous evergreen perennial native to South Africa. Seeds germinate readily when sown in spring or autumn in moist seedling medium.
Before sowing
Scarification
mecanica Scratch seedcoat to improve germination
Soak
24 h Soak seeds overnight until swollen, or until seed swells
Seeds benefit from scarification and/or soaking to break seed coat dormancy
Sowing
Substrate
well-drained seedling mix, potting soil with sand
Depth
levemente_coberta
Temperature
21°C
Moisture
alta
Container
seed trays
What to expect
Step 1
Pre-treat the seed
Step 2
Sow at levemente_coberta · 21°C
Day 14–56
Seedlings emerge
Tips
Keep seedlings in full sun with regular watering. Plant in well-drained soil with consistent moisture. Germination often occurs in 2-8 weeks. Maintain temperature above 10°C during germination.
Sources: PlantZAfrica, Pacific Bulb Society, Growplants.org, University of Florida IFAS, Special Plants nursery
