Crocosmia paniculata is a bulbous flowering plant that is native to eastern South Africa, Lesotho, and Eswatini, growing in wet areas by streams, marshes, and drainages. Plants reach 4 to 5 ft (1.2–1.5 m) tall, with lanceolate leaves and deep orange to orange-brown flowers. It is a popular ornamental plant.[1]

Crocosmia paniculata
Scientific classification Edit this classification
Kingdom: Plantae
Clade: Tracheophytes
Clade: Angiosperms
Clade: Monocots
Order: Asparagales
Family: Iridaceae
Genus: Crocosmia
Species:
C. paniculata
Binomial name
Crocosmia paniculata
Synonyms

Antholyza paniculata Klatt
Curtonus paniculatus (Klatt) N.E.Br.

The plant has escaped cultivation and become established in the wild in parts of the United Kingdom.[2]

The common name Aunt Eliza is derived from the former generic name Antholyza.[3]

In Lesotho, where it is native, the plant is used by the indigenous Sotho people as an antidiarrhoeal remedy, administered not only to humans, but also to cattle so afflicted.[4]

References

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  1. ^ "Crocosmia". Pacific Bulb Society. Retrieved 4 September 2012.
  2. ^ Protected Species and Non-Native Species (PDF), London, UK: Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, 2007, p. 13, archived from the original (PDF) on 2010-12-05, retrieved 2010-03-01
  3. ^ "Crocosmia paniculata - Aunt Liza". The African Garden. Retrieved 4 September 2012.
  4. ^ "Medicinal and Poisonous Plants of Southern and Eastern Africa" Watt J.M. and Breyer-Brandwijk M.G. pub. E&S Livingstone 1962 p.504 (under synonym Curtonus paniculatus N.E. Br.)
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