Leopard Lily

Belamcanda chinensis, or Leopard Lily, is an exotic-looking, tuberous perennial that adds a touch of drama to UK borders. Despite its flamboyant appearance, it's surprisingly easy to grow. From mid to late summer, it produces striking orange flowers heavily spotted with red, reminiscent of a leopard's skin. Each flower lasts only a day, but a succession of blooms ensures a continuous display. Following the flowers, attractive seed pods split open to reveal shiny, bead-like black seeds, resembling blackberries, which are often used in dried arrangements. It prefers a sunny position and well-drained soil, making it suitable for a hot, sunny border or gravel garden. Hardy in most parts of the UK if given good drainage.

Sun: Full sun.

Soil: Well-drained.

Hardiness: H4 — down to −10°C.

Flowering: Jul, Aug, Sep.