Asclepias

The African iris, or Fortnight lily as it is also known, is a vigorous clumping perennial that reaches 4 ft. tall and 3 ft. wide. It produces large white flowers with purple and yellow markings that are the showiest of the fortnight lily species. Plants are often more robust than expected and can outgrow small planting areas after several years; large plants can be divided in fall. This species of fortnight lily is the most commonly planted in the Inland Empire where it has proven to be a highly adaptable and tough plant that tolerates a variety of soil types, sun and heat.

Several cultivars can be found a local nurseries, inducing: D. g.‘Variegata’ produces pale green leaves that have creamy stripes. It has white flowers with light purple and golden-yellow markings, and brown spots at the base of the petals. D. g ‘Lemon Drops’ grows 24-36 in. tall and has a lemon-yellow spot and speckled brown dots at the base of creamy-white petals.