The “baboon plant,” Babiana, offers a captivating display of color and form, making it a desirable garden addition. Hailing from South Africa, this cormous perennial gets its name from baboons, which unearth and consume its corms. Its vibrant, often fragrant flowers and straightforward care make it appealing to gardeners.
Understanding the Baboon Plant
The genus Babiana belongs to the Iridaceae family, which also includes irises and freesias. This genus has about 90 species, primarily found in South Africa’s Western and Northern Cape provinces. These plants grow from corms, swollen underground stems similar to bulbs. They produce sword-shaped leaves, often pleated and hairy, emerging in an upright fan.
Babiana flowers are typically funnel-shaped and come in a wide spectrum of colors, including blue, purple, pink, red, white, and yellow. Many species have bi-colored petals or contrasting markings. The flowers are arranged on spikes, resembling freesias.
Planting Baboon Plant Corms
Proper planting ensures baboon plants thrive. In USDA Zones 8-11, plant corms in fall for spring blooms. In colder regions, plant in spring after the last frost, once soil temperatures rise.
Baboon plants need full sunlight for at least six hours daily for robust growth and abundant flowering. The soil must be well-draining to prevent corm rot. Amend heavy clay soils with organic matter or grit to improve drainage. Plant corms 2-4 inches deep and 2-4 inches apart. Planting in clusters creates a more dramatic effect.
Ongoing Care for Baboon Plants
Once established, baboon plants need consistent care for prolific blooming. Consistent full sun exposure is important; insufficient light can lead to a lack of flowers.
Watering needs vary with the growth cycle. During active growth, provide moderate, consistent moisture, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings. During summer dormancy, baboon plants prefer drier conditions to prevent corm rot. A slightly acidic to neutral pH is generally preferred. Applying a balanced liquid fertilizer during the growing season can promote healthier growth and more blooms.
In USDA Zones 8-11, baboon plants can overwinter outdoors. In colder climates (below Zone 8), lift corms and store them in a cool, dry place for winter, or grow plants in containers and indoors before frost. Deadheading spent flowers redirects energy back into the corm, potentially encouraging more blooms.
Troubleshooting Common Baboon Plant Problems
Baboon plants are generally resilient, but issues can arise. A common concern is a lack of blooms, often due to insufficient light. Babiana needs ample sunlight; without it, the plant may prioritize foliage over flowers. Poor drainage or young/small corms can also hinder flowering.
While often pest and disease resistant, baboon plants can be affected by common garden pests such as slugs, snails, and aphids. Organic control methods, like hand-picking slugs and snails or using insecticidal soap for aphids, can help manage these issues. Diseases, particularly corm rot, link to overwatering or poorly draining soil. Proper soil preparation and watering practices prevent these problems.