Learn how to grow and care for Belamcanda chinensis (Blackberry Lily). Discover planting, sunlight, watering, and maintenance tips for healthy blooms.
Belamcanda chinensis, commonly called the Blackberry Lily, grows best in full sun to partial shade with well-draining soil. Seeds germinate in 2–3 weeks at 70°F–75°F, and the plant blooms in summer, producing orange flowers and black seed pods resembling blackberries.
I’ve grown Blackberry Lily plants in my garden for several years. They’re striking, low-maintenance perennials that produce bright orange flowers in midsummer and black seed pods that look like tiny blackberries. This guide covers how to grow Belamcanda chinensis, from seeds to full-grown plants, including container gardening tips.
What Is Belamcanda Chinensis?
Belamcanda chinensis is a perennial plant in the iris family (Iridaceae), native to East Asia. It’s prized for:
- Orange, lily-like flowers with red spots
- Long, sword-shaped leaves
- Seed pods that turn black, giving it the name “Blackberry Lily”
The plant grows 24–36 inches tall, and its upright clumps make it perfect for garden borders or containers.
For scientific details, check Missouri Botanical Garden.
Planting and Soil Requirements
1. Soil
- Prefers well-draining loam or sandy soil
- pH: 6.0–7.5
- Mix compost for added fertility
2. Sunlight
- Thrives in full sun (6+ hours/day)
- Can tolerate partial shade but flowers may be sparse
For soil prep tips, see University of Illinois Extension.
3. Spacing
- Plant 12–18 inches apart
- Allows airflow and reduces fungal issues
Growing from Seeds
1. Seed Germination
- Germination takes 2–3 weeks
- Temperature: 70°F–75°F
- Keep soil moist but not waterlogged
2. Seed Starting
- Start seeds indoors 6–8 weeks before last frost
- Plant ¼ inch deep in seed trays or small pots
- Transplant seedlings outdoors after frost risk passes
For indoor seed germination tips, see North Carolina State University Extension.
Planting Blackberry Lily Outdoors
- Time: Spring, after last frost
- Depth: Same depth as in pots
- Mulch: Apply 1–2 inches to retain moisture and suppress weeds
- Water thoroughly after planting
For container gardening, check my post on growing bush beans in containers similar techniques apply.
Care and Maintenance
1. Watering
- Moderate watering; drought-tolerant once established
- Avoid soggy soil to prevent root rot
2. Fertilization
- Use balanced fertilizer in spring
- Avoid high nitrogen; encourages leaves over flowers
3. Pruning
- Remove dead leaves and spent flower stalks
- Cut back foliage in late fall for a tidy garden
4. Pests & Diseases
- Generally pest-resistant
- Watch for slugs or snails
- Fungal infections are rare in well-drained soil
Flowering and Seed Pods
- Blooms in mid to late summer
- Flowers: Orange with red spots, 2–3 inches across
- Seed pods form after flowering, turning black and woody
These seed pods are decorative and can be collected to grow new plants next season. For propagation methods.
My Experience Growing Blackberry Lily
I started my Blackberry Lily plants from seeds in early spring. They germinated in just under three weeks. By midsummer, I had vibrant orange flowers and striking black seed pods. I also tried growing them in large pots on my patio, which worked well with consistent watering and full sunlight.
