Cape tulip (Moraea flaccida) is an upright perennial that is native to South Africa. It has been introduced to subtropical and tropical regions worldwide. In Australia, it is considered a highly invasive weed which is a common contaminate of pastures and hay bales. M. flaccida produces pink or orange, sometimes yellow, 6-petaled flowers with a yellow center on the ends of branches. Each plant has one leaf that is folded initially and matures to a strap-like appearance as it grows. It's fruits are green elongated capsules which turn brown as they mature. Each capsule contains up to 150 small seeds.
Toxic components
All parts of M. flaccida contain highly toxic cardiac glycosides. It is typically unpalatable to horses, but if not provided with enough food they may eat it. It is also a common contaminate in hay in Australia.
