Cobra Lily

chasmanthe aethiopica

Also known as: ["African Corn Lily","Orange Iris"]

Family: Iridaceae Genus: Chasmanthe Category: Flowers

Overview

A South African bulbous plant known for its striking orange-red flowers that resemble a cobra's head.

Benefits & Perks

["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Liliopsida
Order: Asparagales
Family: Iridaceae
Genus: Chasmanthe
Botanical Name: Chasmanthe aethiopica

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Flowers
  • Suitable Location: border plantings or naturalized areas in temperate gardens
  • Suitable For:
    Beginners Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–25°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
  • Misting: rarely required
  • Drainage: Fast-draining; poor drainage can cause bulb rot.
  • Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter; can tolerate sandy soils.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: moderate
  • Toughness Level: moderate
  • Pruning Frequency: After flowering; annually in fall after foliage dies back.
  • Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; focus on removing dead or damaged parts.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade (4–6 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates light shade in hotter climates.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to full sun to prevent scorching; in hot regions, provide afternoon shade; adjust placement based on seasonal light intensity.

Warning Signs: Yellowing or wilting leaves (overwatering); soft, mushy bulbs (rot); stunted growth (poor soil quality).

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
moderate

moderate

Sunlight

full sun to partial shade

Avoid deep shade; protect from intense midday sun; rotate pot for even growth.

Watering

every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in dormancy

Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries slightly between waterings; avoid overwatering during dormancy.

Soil

well-draining, loamy soil with some organic matter

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).

Avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes; amend with grit if needed.

Temperature

Prefers mild temperatures (50–75°F or 10–24°C); thrives in cool winters and warm summers.

Avoid sudden temperature swings; protect from frost; ensure good air flow in hot weather.

Fertilizing

every 2–3 months during active growth

Fertilize only during active growth; avoid high-nitrogen formulas; stop feeding in fall.

Propagation

Methods

Division of corms; separate offsets after flowering when foliage dies back.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Dig up mature corms.
  2. Separate small offsets.
  3. Replant at the same depth.
  4. Water lightly.

Best Time: Late summer or early fall, after flowering and when foliage has withered.

Environment

Warm, sheltered location with indirect light; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.

Medium

Well-draining soil mix (e.g., cactus mix with added perlite); can also be planted directly in the ground.

Hormone

Not required for corm division.

Timeline

Corms establish quickly in 1–2 weeks; flowering may take a full growing season.

Tools Needed

Garden fork, sharp knife, gloves.

Quick Tips

Replant offsets immediately; ensure each has roots or a growing point; space new corms 4–6 inches apart.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Cut flower stalks at the base; trim foliage only after it has completely withered.

Pruning Plan

Remove spent flower spikes to encourage bulb energy storage; trim dead foliage after it yellows.

Tools

Pruning shears, gloves.

Checklist

Remove dead flowers; wait for foliage to die back before cutting; clean tools after use.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Early spring, just before new growth emerges.

Pot Size

Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure depth is at least 6 inches.

Method

Gently lift bulbs; remove old soil; replant at the same depth in fresh, well-draining mix; ensure good drainage.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when bulbs become crowded; best when bulbs are actively growing.

Checklist

Check for crowded bulbs; use fresh soil; ensure proper drainage; water lightly after repotting.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; reduce in dormancy.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow water to drain freely; water early in the day to minimize fungal risk.

Pro Tip: Use a watering can with a long spout to direct water to the roots without wetting foliage.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water deeply once a week during active growth (spring/summer); reduce watering significantly in fall as foliage dies back; keep soil dry during dormancy (winter).

Soil Improvement

Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is not compacted.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Yellowing leaves (cold stress); wilting or stunted growth (heat stress); premature bulb dormancy (extreme heat).

Cold Stress

Low temperatures slow growth; frost can damage foliage and reduce flowering.

Solution: Mulch bulbs in winter; protect from frost; move potted plants indoors if temperatures drop below 40°F (4°C).

Hot Stress

Excessive heat can cause foliage to scorch, reduce flowering, and force premature dormancy.

Solution: Provide partial shade during peak heat; increase air circulation; water deeply but infrequently.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Use balanced fertilizer; apply in spring; avoid dormant period.

Fertilizing Method

Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring; avoid fertilizing during dormancy; dilute liquid fertilizer to half-strength if needed.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellow leaves in Chasmanthe aethiopica may indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations, leading to reduced photosynthesis and overall plant vigor.

Wilting in Chasmanthe aethiopica can result from water stress, either due to drought or overwatering, affecting the plant's ability to transport water and nutrients.

Leaf spots on Chasmanthe aethiopica are often caused by fungal or bacterial pathogens, resulting in reduced photosynthetic efficiency and potential leaf drop.

Rotting, particularly of the corms, can occur in Chasmanthe aethiopica due to fungal infections or excessive moisture, leading to decay and potential plant death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Toxic

Chasmanthe aethiopica is toxic to cats, with the bulbs and roots posing the greatest risk. The toxic compounds can cause severe gastrointestinal upset and other systemic effects, necessitating prompt veterinary care.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy loss of appetite abdominal pain tremors
🌿 Toxic Parts:
bulbs roots
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Ensure cats cannot access the plant. If ingestion is suspected, seek veterinary assistance without delay.
Dogs
Toxic

The bulbs and roots of Chasmanthe aethiopica are toxic to dogs, containing compounds that can lead to gastrointestinal and systemic distress. Ingestion can result in severe health complications requiring veterinary intervention.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy loss of appetite abdominal pain tremors
🌿 Toxic Parts:
bulbs roots
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep pets away from the plant, especially the bulbs and roots. If ingestion is suspected, contact a veterinarian immediately.
Humans
Toxic

Chasmanthe aethiopica contains toxic compounds that can cause significant physiological effects when ingested. The bulbs and roots are particularly toxic due to the presence of alkaloids and other irritant substances that can disrupt normal bodily functions.

⚠️ Symptoms:
nausea vomiting abdominal pain diarrhea dizziness difficulty breathing
🌿 Toxic Parts:
bulbs roots
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep out of reach of children and avoid ingestion. If accidental ingestion occurs, seek medical attention immediately.
Important: Keep this plant out of reach of children and pets. If ingestion occurs, contact poison control or veterinary services immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Chasmanthe aethiopica toxic to pets?

A: Yes, it is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.

Q: How often should I water Chasmanthe aethiopica?

A: Water moderately during the growing season, reducing water in dormancy.

Q: Does Chasmanthe aethiopica attract wildlife?

A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds with its nectar-rich flowers.

Quick Reference
Family: Iridaceae
Care: moderate
Light: full sun to partial shade
Water: every 7–10 days during activ
Suitable For: ["beginners","outdoor landscapers","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
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