Watsonia (Bugle Lily) is a genus of plants in the iris family, subfamily Crocoideae, native to South Africa. The genus is named after Sir William Watson, an 18th century British botanist. There are 52 species in southern Africa; all are perennial herbs growing from corms and producing erect spikes of showy flowers, and are adapted to a Mediterranean-type climate. Native to South Africa, Watsonia species were introduced as garden ornamentals to Australia in the mid-19th century and were widely grown by the 1940s.

Growing 1m to 2m with broad leaves and bright red flowers. Flowers in summer. Native to dry areas.

USDA Zone - 8

Season to Sow - Autumn

Photos with credit to the late Rod and Rachel Saunders, eminent experts on South African indigenous flora.