Product Description
Belamcanda chinensis 'Freckle Face' (25) Bare Root Plants
Common Name: Blackberry Lily, Leopard Flower
Belamcanda has been reclassified and renamed Iris domestica
'Freckle Face' produces a profusion of two-inch wide, brilliant orange blossoms with heavy red specking and shading on each of the six overlapping petals. They emerge atop mid-sized plants with green, sword-shaped foliage like that of a tall bearded iris. Resistant to leaf spot.
Belamcanda blooms for weeks in late summer, and its season of interest is extended into fall with the interesting seed pods which develop. Tan, pear-shaped pods burst open to reveal clusters of black seeds resembling blackberries, hence the common name. Through the winter they are attractive in fresh or dried flower arrangements.
Blackberry lilies are easily grown in average, medium, well-drained soils; poorly-drained soil, particularly in winter, could be fatal. Plant height varies depending on the soil conditions. A heavy layer of mulch is suggested for northern winters. For best results, divide in early spring. Plants may self-seed in optimum growing conditions which helps keep these somewhat short-lived perennials in the garden.
Height: 18.0-24.0 Inches
Spread: 8.0-12.0 Inches
Hardiness Zones: 4,5,6,7,8,9,10
Flower Color: Gold/Orange Shades
Foliage Color: Green shades
Full Sun (> 6 hrs. Direct Sun)
Low to Average Water Needs
Average to Fertile Soil Quality
Bloomtime: Late Summer
Attracts Butterflies
Seasonal Interest: Dried Seed Heads
Growth Rate: Medium
Border Plant, Cut Flower, Dried Flower
Belamcanda chinensis 'Freckle Face', also known as the Blackberry Lily or Leopard Flower, is a vibrant and eye-catching perennial that adds a touch of exotic flair to gardens. Here is a breakdown of its key features:
Appearance:
- Vivid blooms: 'Freckle Face' produces striking orange flowers with unique red speckles or "freckles" on the petals. These markings give it its distinctive and playful look.
- Sword-like foliage: The plant features upright, sword-shaped leaves that resemble those of an iris. This foliage provides a nice contrast to the brightly colored flowers.
- Blackberry-like seed pods: After the flowers fade, they leave behind interesting tan seed pods that split open to reveal clusters of shiny black seeds, resembling blackberries. This is where the common name "Blackberry Lily" comes from.
Growing Conditions:
- Sun lover: 'Freckle Face' thrives in full sun, needing at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
- Well-drained soil: It prefers well-drained soil and can tolerate some drought once established. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.
- Hardiness: This cultivar is hardy in USDA zones 5-10, making it adaptable to a wide range of climates.
Uses:
- Borders and beds: 'Freckle Face' adds a splash of color and interest to borders and flower beds.
- Cottage gardens: Its vibrant blooms and unique seed pods make it a great addition to cottage gardens.
- Cut flowers: The flowers are long-lasting and make beautiful additions to bouquets.
- Dried arrangements: The seed pods can be dried and used in crafts or dried flower arrangements.
Benefits:
- Unique and eye-catching: The orange flowers with red speckles are sure to attract attention.
- Long bloom time: 'Freckle Face' blooms for several weeks in summer.
- Attractive seed pods: The seed pods provide interest even after the flowers are gone.
- Deer resistant: Deer tend to avoid Belamcanda.
Things to keep in mind:
- Self-seeding: 'Freckle Face' can self-seed, so you may need to control its spread if you do not want it to naturalize.
- Division: You can divide clumps every few years to prevent overcrowding and promote vigorous growth.
Overall, Belamcanda chinensis 'Freckle Face' is a fun and easy-to-grow perennial that will bring a touch of the exotic to your garden with its vibrant blooms and unique seed pods.
Other Details
The most important part of the plant is its root system. Healthy roots are the foundation of a healthy, vibrant plant. The type of plug container used is based on the specific needs of the plants. Perennials offered as bare root traditionally perform better when planted as bare root.Planted in a specialized mix, potted plants have well established root systems. Top growth stage will vary depending on the current life cycle and time of year when shipped. In Winter and early Spring dormant plants may be shipped. Dormant plants may be planted right away, even before the last frost date.
Most bare root varieties are field grown for at least one season, though Hemerocallis and Hosta are grown for two seasons. The bulk of the soil is removed during the harvesting process and the tops of most varieties are trimmed back to the crown. They are graded, packed in shredded aspen or sphagnum moss and stored in freezers until ready to be shipped.
See our Container Sizes and Bare Root Perennials pages for more information.
Plant information and care is provided in the Overview section, Plant Genus Page and general information is provided in the Planting Care & Guides. Additional questions can be asked on each Plant page.
Plant Spacing: Using the maximum mature spread or width of a plant to guide spacing, ensures space to grow to full size. To fill an area sooner, plant them closer together. Just remember, future thinning or transplanting may be needed.
Water: Keep a close eye on newly planted perennials, especially throughout the first growing year. Most early plant loss is due to too much or too little water!
