Babiana stricta

Babiana stricta carries a number of titles for such a small flower. It’s been called the Baboon Flower and the Blue Freesia, yet its only link with a baboon would be sharing its native habitat in South Africa with baboons, and when it comes to the blue flower aspect, Babiana stricta is available in several colours including violet blue, magenta, mauve and white now thanks to hybrids and cultivars. The funnel-shaped flowers of Babiana stricta open to around 5 cm (2 inch) in late spring and are easy to grow if planted in well-drained soil in a sunny spot. Babiana stricta plants are a great addition to gardens if planted around shrubs, along paths or in among other perennials.