Chlorophytum saundersiae (Baker) Nordal
formerly Anthericum saundersiae
weeping anthericum · watergras (Afr.)
Tough, grass-like clumping perennial with white starry flowers; a landscaper's favourite.
What’s in the name: Chlorophytum: Greek for "green plant"; saundersiae: honours Katharine Saunders, a Natal botanical artist.
“To continue is power.”
— Japanese proverb (継続は力なり), Wikiquote: Japanese proverbs
Available from AVNPlants: see the availability list.
Family
Agavaceae
Conservation status
Least Concern, SANBI Red List of South African Plants
Natural distribution & habitat
KwaZulu-Natal, Eswatini and parts of the Eastern Cape: coastal forest and low grassland near river mouths that sometimes flood.
Size & form
Clump-forming perennial up to about 40 cm, with a rosette of narrow, light green strap leaves 30–40 cm long.
Flowering
October to March.
Uses in landscaping
- Waterwise alternative to restios or sedges in summer-rainfall gardens
- Mass planting and edging
Care notes
Hardy and pest-resistant. Sun or part shade; any soil, though it likes sandy soil with compost. Frost-tolerant.
Wildlife value
Flowers attract butterflies, bees and other small insects.
Find out more
Facts checked against: SANBI PlantZAfrica species page 'Chlorophytum saundersiae'; SANBI Red List of South African Plants, Chlorophytum saundersiae (Baker) Nordal (assessment 2005/06/30).