Angel's Fishing Rod Dierama igneum
ABOUT
The plant known as the "angel's fishing rod" boasts an elegant and delicate appearance, with slender, arching stems that suggest the image of a fishing rod in motion. At the end of each stem dangle bell-like flowers, colored in a fiery hue evoking the warmth of burning embers. These blossoms are arranged in a fetching, pendulous manner, swinging gracefully with the breeze. Forming clumps, the linear and grass-like foliage of angel's fishing rod emerges from the ground, creating a striking contrast with the vivid display of its flowering stems. The overall impression of this plant is one of airy lightness and whimsical charm, as its floral rods seem to float and dance above the garden bed.
About this plant
- Names
Family
Iridaceae
Synonyms
Fire Fairy Fishing Rod, Dwarf Angel's Fishing Rod, Red Dierama
Common names
Dierama igneum
- Toxicity
To humans
Dierama igneum, commonly known as the Fairy Wand, is not widely recognized for being toxic to humans. However, absence of evidence is not evidence of absence of toxicity. Therefore, it is always best to err on the side of caution and avoid ingesting any part of plants that do not have a confirmed status as edible. If you suspect poisoning from any plant, including Dierama igneum, seek medical attention.
To pets
Dierama igneum, commonly known as the Fairy Wand, is not commonly listed as a toxic plant to pets such as dogs and cats. However, non-toxicity cannot be assumed for all pets or in all parts of the plant. If your pet shows signs of illness after ingesting any part of this plant, consult a veterinarian. Symptoms of plant poisoning in pets can vary but may include vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, weakness, or other abnormal behaviors.
- Characteristics
Life cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Pink
Height
4-5 feet (1.2-1.5 meters)
Spread
2-3 feet (0.6-0.9 meters)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
8
Native area
South Africa
Benefits
- General Benefits
- Ornamental Appeal: Dierama igneum, commonly known as Fairy Wand, adds aesthetic value to gardens with its graceful, arching stems and bell-shaped flowers.
- Attracts Pollinators: The flowers of the Fairy Wand are known to attract bees, butterflies, and birds, supporting local biodiversity.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, Fairy Wand plants are relatively drought-tolerant, making them suitable for water-wise landscaping.
- Low Maintenance: These plants generally require minimal upkeep once they have settled into their environment, reducing the need for constant gardening attention.
- Deer Resistance: Fairy Wand is rarely affected by deer, so it's a good choice for gardens in areas with high deer populations.
- Seasonal Interest: With its summer blooming period, the Fairy Wand provides seasonal interest and color to a garden when many other plants may not be in bloom.
- Versatile Planting: These plants are suitable for a variety of garden styles including borders, rock gardens, and wildflower meadows.
- Medical Properties
This plant is not used for medical purposes.
- Air-purifying Qualities
This plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
- Other Uses
- Dierama igneum, commonly known as Fairy's Fishing Rods, can be used as a natural dye source, producing various shades of colors dependent on the mordant used.
- The plant's fibrous leaves can be woven into small crafts, such as decorative baskets, by enthusiasts of natural materials.
- In ecological landscapes, Fairy's Fishing Rods can serve as a food source for nectar-seeking insects, supporting local biodiversity.
- The long, slender stems can be used in floral arrangements, providing a unique draping effect that is both elegant and whimsical.
- Enthusiasts of feng shui might use Fairy's Fishing Rods in their garden design to introduce a sense of movement and grace, believed to positively influence energy flow.
- The plant can be implemented as a natural edge or border in garden design, as its tall, prominent flowers can delineate areas within the garden space.
- Photographers may seek out Fairy's Fishing Rods as a subject for practicing depth of field and capturing the interplay of light and color due to their distinctive appearance.
- Children can be engaged in nature-based activities by using the plant's stems as lightweight poles for miniature "fishing games" in imaginary play.
- Gardeners might use dried clumps of Fairy's Fishing Rods as a protective mulch to cover sensitive plants during mild frosts, leveraging its insulating properties.
- As a tool for education, the plant can exemplify the life cycle of perennials to students learning about different plant species and their growth patterns.
Interesting Facts
- Feng Shui
The Angel's Fishing Rod is not used in Feng Shui practice.
- Zodiac Sign Compitability
The Angel's Fishing Rod is not used in astrology practice.
- Plant Symbolism
- Gracefulness: Also known as Angel's Fishing Rod, Dierama igneum is known for its long, arching stems and delicate bell-shaped flowers which evoke a sense of elegance and poise.
- Faith and Persistence: Dierama igneum is resilient and capable of growing in tough conditions, reflecting the qualities of faithfulness and persistence in overcoming challenges.
- Mysticism: The common name Angel's Fishing Rod may symbolize a connection to the ethereal or celestial realms, suggesting elements of mysticism or otherworldliness.
- Attraction and Charm: With its captivating flowers that seem to 'float' on their stems, Dierama igneum can be a symbol of attraction, enchantment, and natural charm.
- Balance: Its slender stems that sway gracefully in the wind communicate a sense of balance and the ability to move with life's changes while maintaining stability.
- Water
Angel's Fishing Rod prefers a consistent moisture level, so it's important to water it thoroughly once the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. During the growing season, this might translate to watering approximately every week, with about one to two gallons per watering session for an established plant, depending on the local climate and weather conditions. Itβs crucial to avoid waterlogging, so ensure good drainage in the pot or garden bed. During the winter, reduce the frequency of watering as the plant goes into dormancy.
- Light
Angel's Fishing Rod thrives in full sun to partial shade, with a preference for a position where it receives at least six hours of sunlight daily. The best spot for the plant is one where morning sun is plentiful, and it's shielded from the intense heat of the late afternoon sun, which can be too harsh, especially in hotter climates.
- Temperature
Angel's Fishing Rod does well in a range of temperatures and can endure cold down to about 20 degrees Fahrenheit, though it prefers to be in an environment where the temperature typically ranges between 50 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit. The maximum temperature for this plant should not exceed 90 degrees Fahrenheit to avoid heat stress.
- Pruning
Angel's Fishing Rod benefits from pruning to remove spent flowers and old foliage, which encourages new growth and helps maintain an attractive appearance. Prune the flower stalks back to ground level after blooming, typically in late summer or fall. Additionally, in early spring, trim away any damaged or dead leaves to keep the plant healthy.
- Cleaning
As needed
- Soil
Angel's Fishing Rod prefers a fertile, well-draining soil mix with a pH ranging from slightly acidic to neutral. A mixture of loam, sand, and peat or compost will provide the necessary drainage and nutrients. Regularly adding organic matter can help maintain soil fertility for optimal growth.
- Repotting
Angel's Fishing Rod does not require frequent repotting as it prefers to be left undisturbed. It is best to repot only when the clump becomes overcrowded, typically every 3-5 years, in order to maintain its health and vigor.
- Humidity & Misting
Angel's Fishing Rod thrives in average humidity conditions. It does not have specific humidity requirements, making it adaptable to typical outdoor humidity levels.
- Suitable locations
Indoor
Provide bright light and well-draining soil for Angel's Fishing Rod.
Outdoor
Plant in sun to partial shade, in moist, fertile soil.
Hardiness zone
8-10 USDA
- Life cycle
Dierama igneum, commonly known as Fairy's Fishing Rods, begins its life as a seed which after germination sends up a small clump of grass-like foliage. Over a few years, this corm-based perennial establishes a stronger clump and will start to produce slender, arching flowering stems that bear bell-shaped flowers in shades of pink and red. After the flowering stage, usually in late summer, the plant sets seed which can be dispersed by wind or gravity, falling close to the parent plant to potentially germinate and begin the cycle anew. During winter, Dierama igneum enters a period of dormancy where the foliage may die back, depending on the climate, and the plant conserves energy within the corm. Once spring arrives, it breaks dormancy, sending up fresh foliage and preparing for the subsequent flowering period. The plant continues to grow and multiply, potentially living for many years and gradually forming larger clumps.
- Propogation
Propogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Dierama igneum, commonly known as Angel's Fishing Rod, is often propagated by division, usually done in the spring or early summer when the plant has finished flowering. The preferred method involves carefully lifting the plant and gently separating the corms at the base. Each corm should have a portion of the root attached, and these can then be replanted immediately. The corms should be planted at the same depth they were previously growing, approximately 3 to 5 inches (8 to 13 cm) deep, and spaced about 12 inches (30 cm) apart to allow for growth. This method encourages a rapid establishment and flowering, often within the next season.