Originating from southern Africa where they are found colonising reliably moist soils or lake margins, these elegant perennials are at their peak in summer when they produce their magnificent flowers. These look beautiful in the border, but are also excellent for cutting and adding to the vase, where they will usually put on a long-lasting display. Tolerant of a little light shade, they will flower best in a sunny spot and they should be fed and watered freely during the growing season. Hardier forms may be left to form large clumps in sheltered gardens with the protection of a deep winter mulch, while more tender cultivars will need to be moved under glass for the winter months.