Short-Stamen Butterfly Lily

(Wachendorfia brachyandra)

Short-Stamen Butterfly Lily (Wachendorfia brachyandra)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Wachendorfia brachyandra, commonly known as Short-Stamen Butterfly Lily, is a deciduous perennial herb native to the fynbos and grassland regions of South Africa. It typically grows to a height of 10–65 cm (3.9–25.6 in) and is characterized by its winter-growing habit, emerging from a rhizomatous rootstock. The plant features narrow, lance-shaped leaves and produces bright yellow flowers with short stamens during the spring and summer months. Each flower is ephemeral, lasting only a single day, but the plant often produces numerous blooms in succession, creating an extended display of color.

The Short-Stamen Butterfly Lily is appreciated for its vibrant yellow flowers and ability to adapt to a range of garden settings. It is often used in borders, rock gardens, and as a part of naturalistic plantings. While it thrives in full sun to part shade, it requires well-drained soil and moderate watering, being somewhat drought-tolerant once established. It is not commonly known to suffer from serious disease or pest problems, but it can be sensitive to overwatering, which may lead to root rot. This species is not typically invasive when grown outside its native range, but gardeners should always monitor their plants and manage them responsibly.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb
  • Height: 0.7-2 feet
  • Width: 0.4-1.5 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: Yellow
  • Flowering Season: Spring, Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Fast

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Butterfly Garden, Low Maintenance, Potted Plant, Showy Flowers

Natural Habitat

Native to the fynbos and grassland regions of South Africa

Other Names

Common Names: Lax Butterfly Lily

Scientific Names: , Wachendorfia brachyandra,

GBIF Accepted Name: Wachendorfia brachyandra W.F.Barker