With its striking flowers and leaves, the Spanish dagger is a plant suitable for gardeners in pursuit of beauty.
The Spanish dagger's flowers. /VCG Photo
The Spanish dagger is an evergreen shrub native to the southeastern U.S. It has become widely cultivated for ornamental purposes in various parts of the world. The plant's long, narrow leaves are between 30 to 50 centimeters long and are dark green in color.
A blooming Spanish dagger in the city of Zhengzhou, located in central China's Henan Province. /VCG Photo
The Spanish dagger's blooming period is usually from June to October, though this can last through to November. The plant produces big, white flowers with purple tips, hanging off the plant like bells.
The showy flowers of the Spanish dagger. /VCG Photo
The Spanish dagger is a desert plant, and prefers hot, dry environments. But, it can do well at temperatures between 18 to 22 degrees Celsius with enough light, and so is suitable for apartments. The plant can withstand up to -15 degrees Celsius.
The Spanish dagger does not like too much moisture so watering only once or twice a week during spring and summer is advisable, as well as reduced watering during fall and winter.
Read more:
(Cover image via VCG, designed by CGTN's Yin Yating)
(If you want to contribute and have specific expertise, please contact us at nature@cgtn.com.)