Moraea flaccida aka One Leaf Cape Tulip

Moraea flaccida is the one-leaf Cape tulip, a cormous perennial in the iris family. It comes from the western southwest and southwest Cape of South Africa. Its native range has a subtropical climate. The older name Homeria flaccida refers to the same species. This plant loses its leaves and has a dry rest period.

The RHS describes flowering plants about 2 feet [0.6 metres] tall. Its garden size range reaches 3.3 feet [1 metre]. The listed spread is just 0.3 feet [0.1 metre]. Each plant makes one arching leaf, which can reach 3.3 feet [1 metre] long. Branched stems bear flowers with six petals in salmon or yellow. Flowers appear in spring and summer. Chicago Botanic Garden lists May to June as its bloom season. Plants take two to five years to reach full size.

Choose a warm, sheltered spot with plenty of sun. The RHS suggests a sunny wall with shade at midday. Chicago Botanic Garden also lists partial shade as suitable. This species suits sand or loam that drains well. Add humus, but keep the soil only moderately rich. It accepts acid, neutral, or alkaline soil. The RHS gives it hardiness rating H3, for mild and coastal UK sites. Chicago Botanic Garden lists USDA zones 9–11. Keep it safe from excess winter rain.

Water needs change as the plant grows and rests. Give little water when new growth first starts. Water more freely once the plant reaches full growth. Reduce watering as the leaf fades. Keep the corm dry from midsummer through autumn during its rest. Under glass, use peat-free, loam-based compost with sharp grit added. These needs make good drainage and seasonal watering key parts of its care. It suits a greenhouse as well as a mild, sheltered garden.

Use it in beds, borders, or beside a warm wall. The RHS also suggests it for gardens with a Mediterranean climate. Its single long leaf and branched flower stems give it a slender shape. No pruning is needed. Sow seed in pots in a cold frame in spring. You can also remove offsets while the plant rests. The RHS reports few usual pest or disease problems. It is harmful to people and pets if eaten. Wear gloves and other protective gear when handling it. It should not be treated as an edible plant.