Arthropodium, often called the New Zealand Rock Lily, is a wonderful choice for garden enthusiasts seeking a touch of elegance and grace. Its slender, arching stems bear clusters of delicate, star-shaped flowers that come in shades of pristine white or soft lavender.. With its adaptability to various conditions and easy-care nature, Arthropodium is the ideal plant to effortlessly elevate the beauty of your outdoor space.
Planting Calendar
Arthropodium or Renga Renga Lily are best planted from spring through to Autumn.
Prepare
Arthropodium is a perennial that is clump forming and looks great mixed with other plants. They are perfect for small gardens and can also be used as container plants. Spikes of white flowers appear in spring which attract bees to the garden.
Position
Plant in full to partial shade in free draining soil. Tolerant of dry and coastal conditions.
Soil
When planted into the ground Arthropodium prefer a free-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. To improve the organic content in your soil, break up the soil and add Kings Compost and Kings Sheep Pellets then mix together well. When growing in containers, plant into Kings Container mix. This mix contains Saturaid, which helps with moisture retention in the soil.
Plant
When planting into the ground, gently tap the plant out of its pot. Dig a hole twice the depth and width of the plant’s root ball. Mix Kings Compost into your existing soil at a 50/50 ratio, add Kings Sheep Pellets then mix together. Backfill the hole with this soil, so that when planted the top of the plant’s roots sit level with the surrounding ground. Firm the soil down gently and water in well with Aquaticus Organic Garden Booster. In heavier clay soils, where drainage is likely to be an issue, plant onto a raised mound and sprinkle Gypsum Clay Breaker into the bottom of the hole, this helps slowly condition the soil and help to break down the clay. When planting into containers plant into Kings Container Mix, as this has water retention crystals in it, which will help in keeping the soil moist.
Care
Watering
Watering is essential especially in the first year of planting to allow the roots to get well established. Water slowly, allowing the water to sink down into the roots, rather than just allowing it to run off the top of the surface of the soil.
Feeding
When planted in the ground liquid feed every month with Aquaticus Organic Garden Booster, from Spring through to the end of Autumn, this encourages root growth and increases the microbial activity in the soil. Monthly applications of Kings Sheep Pellets will help with soil conditioning and plant health. If planted into a container, feed with Kings Liquid Fast Food along with monthly applications of Aquaticus Organic Garden Booster this encourages strong roots and a healthy immune system.
Protecting
Slug bait may be needed as they are very susceptible to damage.
Mulching
Mulch around the base of the plants (making sure it is not in direct contact with the trunk) with Living Earth More than Mulch. Mulching helps to reduce weeds as well as aiding the soil to lock moisture in the ground.
Pruning
Prune any old flowers after flowering. Some removal of lower brown leaves may be required.
Expert Tip
Do not overcrowd, allow 50cm between plants. Overcrowding can result in spindly growth and poor flowering.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Anthropodium?
Anthropodium, also known as Arthropodium, is a genus of flowering plants that includes species like Arthropodium cirratum, commonly known as Rengarenga or New Zealand Rock Lily. They are known for their attractive white or pale lavender flowers and are native to New Zealand.
How do I plant Anthropodium?
Watering is essential especially in the first year of planting to allow the roots to get well established. Water slowly, allowing the water to sink down into the roots, rather than just allowing it to run off the top of the surface of the soil.
When is the best time to plant Anthropodium?
The best time to plant Anthropodium is in spring or autumn when the temperatures are mild, and the soil is moist. This helps the plants establish themselves before the extreme heat of summer or the cold of winter.
How often should I water Anthropodium?
Watering is essential especially in the first year of planting to allow the roots to get well established. Water slowly, allowing the water to sink down into the roots, rather than just allowing it to run off the top of the surface of the soil.
What pests and diseases affect Anthropodium?
Anthropodium is relatively pest and disease-resistant. However, they can occasionally be affected by slugs and snails. Use organic slug pellets or traps to manage these pests.