Description
Triteleia Queen Fabiola
Also known as Ithuriel’s Spear, this perennial corm from the Asparagaceae family is native to North America. Renowned for its clusters of vibrant violet-blue, star-shaped flowers, it blooms in late spring to early summer, rising atop slender stems and narrow, strap-like foliage. As the flowers emerge, the foliage begins to naturally die back but does not completely wither until after the blooms have faded, allowing the plant to focus energy on its elegant display. The deep blue-violet petals feature lighter centres, creating a striking contrast, while its airy structure adds lightness and movement to garden beds or containers.
Climate suitability
Queen Fabiola is a resilient perennial, suitable for all climates, thriving in sunny, well-drained conditions and adapting to various soil types. It prefers dry summers and cool winters and is hardy to around -5°C once established, though frost protection is needed during its initial phase using mulch, greenhouses, or frost cloths. Once established, move them to sheltered spots or cover them with mulch.
When to Plant: Plant corms from March. In warmer climates, plant in mid to late autumn to allow roots to establish in cooler soil. Once established, they are drought-tolerant and perfect for low-maintenance gardens.
Uses in the Garden
Queen Fabiola is a versatile addition to the garden. It works beautifully in pots, rock gardens, and borders, where its vibrant flowers can create focal points or complement other plants. When planted en masse, it forms a bold carpet of colour, while smaller clusters bring subtle charm to compact spaces. Its elegant stems make it an excellent choice for cut flower arrangements, adding natural beauty to indoor displays. Planting it among other perennials can help disguise its foliage as it dies back, keeping the focus on its stunning blooms.
How to Plant
- Prepare the Location: Choose a sunny spot for optimal blooms, though the plant will still thrive in partial shade.
- Enrich the Soil: Ensure the soil has good drainage by mixing in compost, well-aged manure, or a complete organic fertiliser, such as blood and bone, to support strong growth and vibrant flowers.
- Plant the Corms: Place corms 5–8 cm deep (about three times their height) with the pointed side up. In warmer climates, plant them at least 8 cm deep to protect them from heat and drying out. Space corms 10 cm apart in the ground, or a few centimetres apart if planting in pots to create a fuller display.
- Water Thoroughly: After planting, water well to settle the soil and encourage root establishment.
- Maintain Moisture: Keep the soil consistently damp but not waterlogged throughout the growing season.
- Apply Mulch: Add a 2–5 cm layer of mulch to retain moisture, regulate soil temperature, and protect the corms from fluctuations.
Aftercare
After flowering, allow the foliage to die completely, enabling the bulbs to store energy for the next season. Once the flowers have faded, apply an organic fertiliser, such as blood and bone, to strengthen the bulbs and encourage robust growth. Consider lifting and storing bulbs in a cool, dry place to prevent rot in regions with very wet summers or prolonged periods of heavy rainfall. During winter, top-dress the planting area with a complete fertiliser or bulb food to prepare the bulbs for the coming growth cycle.
Division
Divide corms every 3–5 years to prevent overcrowding and maintain healthy growth. Lift the corms after the foliage has died back, carefully separate any offsets, and replant or store them in a cool, dry place until the next growing season.
Pests and Diseases
Queen Fabiola is largely pest-free, but in wet climates, applying a fungicide spray can help prevent mould or rot, especially if conditions are humid or the soil retains too much moisture.
Safety
Queen Fabiola is not known to be harmful if touched or ingested, making it a safe choice for gardens with pets or children. However, as with any plant, supervise pets and children around garden areas.
Supplied as dormant corms.