Native to northern Andean Argentina, this is a fast-growing iris relative that develops small flats of sword-shaped iris-like leaves that can reach more than 15 inches tall, and when happy can also within a year from seed produce a slender stalk bearing one to over a dozen sequential morning-open blooms. The flowers are about 2 inches across, with three broad lavender-blue sepals surrounding a cuplike structure made from the strange modified petals, that have yellow and brown striped bases and yellow marks where the fingerlike projected tip joins the broader cup base. Though very ephemeral, they are a treat for the early riser to catch (or, may last all day on cool, cloudy days). Seeds need no special treatment, and a moist but well-drained soil in a warm location will keep them around for potentially several years.
Packets contain approx. 20 seeds each.