Arthropodium

Arthropodium - Rengarenga Lily – Best Plants In New Zealand!

Growing flowering plants such as the Rengarenga Lily delivers a vast range of benefits:

• They attract birds and bees.
• They are attractive plants with large, glossy leaves and showy flowers.
• They are relatively low-maintenance and easy to care for.
• They are tolerant of a variety of soil conditions, including drought and poor soil.
• They can be used to create a sense of privacy in a garden or to add a touch of elegance to a landscape.
• Greater biodiversity is created.
• Children can learn the plants and become more involved with nature.
• They bring colour and vibrance to a space.
• These plants will bring you pleasure for many years to come.

We have a wide range of Arthropodium that are ready for their new home, and we’ll help you find the right rengarenga lily for your space. Choose from a wide variety of locally grown Arthropodium cirratum plants that have been propagated and bred to thrive in NZ’s climate. We stock only the highest quality rengarenga lilies, sourcing them from NZ’s leading nurseries. Each plant is packed and transported with extreme care, ensuring it arrives to you in the same condition it was in when it left the nursery. If you are wanting to buy Arthropodium cirratum, shop with confidence from the best in the industry.

Arthropodium cirratum Questions

1. How tall is Arthropodium?

The height of the Arthropodium cirratum, commonly known as the renga lily, typically ranges from 40-60 cm (16 to 24 inches). However, some cultivars may grow taller or shorter than this range. For instance, the 'Te Puna' cultivar has a mature height of around 40 cm (16 inches), while the 'Matapouri Bay' cultivar can reach up to 60 cm (24 inches) in height.

The growth of Arthropodium cirratum is influenced by the growing conditions, soil type, and level of sunlight the plant receives. In general, these plants prefer well-drained, loamy soil and partial shade to full shade. They are relatively drought-tolerant once established and can thrive in a variety of climates.

2. What are the red spots on Arthropodium leaves?

There are two primary causes of red spots on Arthropodium leaves:

1. Anthocyanin production: Arthropodium plants, particularly those of the Arthropodium cirratum species, are known to produce anthocyanins, which are pigments that impart red, purple, or blue coloration to plant tissues. This anthocyanin production can manifest as red spots or patches on the leaves, especially under certain conditions.
2. Nematode infestation: A specific type of nematode, Afelenchoides ritzemabosi, can also cause red spots on Arthropodium leaves. These nematodes feed on the plant's internal tissues, causing small lesions that appear as red spots on the leaves. In severe cases, nematode infestation can lead to leaf distortion and premature death.

If you observe red spots on your Arthropodium leaves, it's essential to determine the underlying cause. If the spots are primarily associated with anthocyanin production, it's likely a natural response to stress or environmental factors and doesn't pose a significant threat to the plant's health. However, if the spots appear irregular, accompanied by other symptoms like leaf distortion or stunting, nematode infestation might be the culprit. In such cases, consulting a horticultural expert is recommended.

3. Are New Zealand rock lilies edible?

The rhizomes or tubers of the New Zealand rock lily, Arthropodium cirratum, are edible. They were traditionally consumed by Maori people in New Zealand and were considered a valuable source of food. The rhizomes are typically roasted, steamed, or baked, and they have a starchy, slightly sweet flavour.

However, it's important to note that some parts of the New Zealand rock lily, particularly the leaves and flowers, contain saponins, which can cause irritation or poisoning if ingested. Therefore, it's recommended to consume only the rhizomes after proper preparation.

Here's a summary of the edibility of New Zealand rock lilies:

• Rhizomes: Edible, traditionally consumed by Maori people
• Leaves and flowers: Not edible, contain saponins that can cause irritation or poisoning.
• Preparation: Typically roasted, steamed, or baked
• Taste: Starchy, slightly sweet flavour

4. What type of plant is Arthropodium cirratum?

Arthropodium cirratum, commonly known as the renga lily or New Zealand rock lily, is a species of herbaceous perennial plant from the family Asparagaceae. It is endemic to New Zealand, where it is found in coastal and rocky areas. The plant is characterized by its clump-forming habit, strap-like green leaves, and spikes of white flowers that appear in late spring to early summer.

5. What is the common name for Arthropodium?

The common name for Arthropodium cirratum is renga lily or New Zealand rock lily. It is also known by its Māori name rengarenga. The name rengarenga is derived from the Māori word for turmeric, as the rhizomes of the plant have a similar appearance and texture to turmeric roots.

Here are some other less common names for Arthropodium cirratum:

• maikaika
• New Zealand spiderwort
• New Zealand baby's breath

6. What plant is known as sword lilies?

The plant known as sword lilies is actually a genus of flowering plants called Gladiolus. The name "sword lily" comes from the sword-shaped leaves of these plants. Gladioli are popular garden flowers and are also used in cut flower arrangements. They come in a wide range of colors, including red, pink, orange, yellow, white, and purple. Gladioli are native to South Africa, but they are now grown all over the world.

7. How do you care for Renga Renga?

Rengarengas are relatively low-maintenance plants, but they do have some specific care requirements to thrive:

1. Choose a suitable planting site: They prefer a well-drained soil in partial shade to full shade. They can tolerate sun exposure, but they may develop leaf burn if exposed to direct sunlight for extended periods.
2. Dig a planting hole that is slightly larger than the root ball of the plant. If the soil is heavy or clay-like, add sand or coarse material to improve drainage and aeration.
3. Place the plant in the hole so that the top of the root ball is level with the soil surface. Backfill the hole with soil, gently firming it around the base of the plant.
4. Renga rengas are reasonably drought-tolerant once established, but they require regular watering during their first growing season and during dry periods. Water deeply once or twice a week, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
5. Renga rengas don't require heavy feeding with fertiliser. A light application of a balanced fertilizer in the spring is sufficient.
6. Apply a layer of organic mulch 5-7 cm thick around the base of the plant to retain soil moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature. Suitable mulch materials include bark chips, wood chips, or shredded leaves.
7. Divide renga rengas every 3-4 years to maintain their vigour and prevent overcrowding. The best time to divide is in the spring or autumn when the plants are not flowering and temperatures are cooler which puts less stress on the plant.
8. Common pests: Renga rengas are relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, they can be occasionally affected by slugs, snails, and aphids. If you notice any pests, remove them manually or use insecticidal product.
9. Fungal diseases: Fungal diseases can occur if the soil is poorly drained or if the leaves are frequently wet. To prevent fungal issues, ensure proper drainage, avoid overhead watering, and promote good air circulation.

8. How do you trim Rengarenga?

Renga rengas, also known as New Zealand rock lilies, are relatively low-maintenance plants that don't require extensive pruning. However, a few basic trimming practices can enhance their appearance and promote healthy growth.

Trimming for Shape and Appearance:

1. Periodically inspect renga rengas and remove any dead, damaged, or diseased leaves. This helps maintain a neat appearance and prevents the spread of diseases.
2. If renga rengas become overcrowded, thinning can improve air circulation and promote better growth. Use your hands or a sharp knife to remove some of the older, inner leaves.

Post-Flowering Maintenance:

1. After flowering, remove spent flower stalks to prevent the plant from putting energy into seed production and encourage new growth.
2. In late autumn, cut back the remaining flower spikes to tidy up the plant and prepare it for winter.

9. Can you grow Renga Renga in full sun?

You can grow Renga Renga (Arthropodium cirratum) in full sun, although it prefers partial shade. In fact, it thrives in a variety of light conditions, ranging from full sun to full shade.

10. What month do you cut back rengarenga lilies?

You can cut back Rengarenga lilies (Arthropodium cirratum) after they have finished flowering, which typically occurs in late January or early February in New Zealand. Here's how to go about it:

• Wait until the flower stalks have completely dried and browned. This ensures the plant has finished storing energy from the foliage.
• Use clean, sharp pruning shears or loppers. This will help prevent the spread of disease.
• Cut the flower stalks back to the base of the plant. You can also remove any dead or damaged leaves at this time.
• Dispose of the plant debris in a compost pile or trash bin.

Additionally, you can do a light trim of the Renga Renga lily in late winter or early spring, around August or September. This involves removing any old or damaged leaves from the base of the plant. This will encourage new growth and keep the plant looking tidy.