The genus Moraea belongs to the Iridaceae family and is a close relative of the genus Iris. It is accepted that it evolved independently from Iris itself, which is restricted to the Northern Hemisphere. Therefore, it is strictly an African genus extending from Nigeria and southern Ethiopia, into the African highlands down to the southern tip of Africa where winter rainfall is predominant. Many are indigenous to South Africa. It is in the winter rainfall area where one finds the highest concentration of Moraea species. They have long narrow basal leaves, sometimes only one per corm and large yellow, pink, orange, or bicolor flowers with six fairly equal tepals. The genus name is a tribute to the English botanist Robert Moore. Moraeas have iris-like flowers. They make good potted plants and are suitable rockery plants too. Most enjoy well-drained soil and full sun to flower best.

Moraea lurida is a South African endemic species from the Western Cape where it is found from Kogelberg to Bredasdorp. It is most predominantly found in Fynbos growing on rocky sandstone and granitic slopes. Moraea lurida is a very variable species from the winter rainfall. It blooms in spring, mainly after fire when the vegetation is cleared, giving it light. It is easily grown from seed and multiplies rapidly. Seeds of this species are best sown during autumn.