Ixia
("Corn lily / African corn lily / Wand flower")
Ixias have slender, wiry stems with tough, narrow leaves and spikes of star-shaped, brightly colored 1-2" / 2-5 cm exquisite cup-shaped flowers. The stems are so tiny it gives the impression that the flowers are just hanging in thin air. The plants are as colorful in bud as when the flowers open in the warmth of the sun. Their pleasing fragrance will attract plenty of bees and butterflies. In Europe Ixias are a florist's delight. The long-lasting cutflowers are frequently used in mixed bouquets. Cut them when the second flower on a spike has opened all the way and immediately put them in water.
What You Need To Know Before You Plant:
When Will This Flower Bloom?
Early Summer
When Should I Buy and Plant These Bulbs?
Spring
What Kind of Light Does This Bulb Prefer?
Full sun
What Color Will the Flower Be?
Usually mixed: pink, red, yellow, purple-red, white & cream.
How Far Apart Should I Plant These Bulbs?
2 in / 5 cm
How Deep Should I Dig?
3 in / 8 cm
How Tall Will It Grow?
14-20 in / 35-50 cm
Recommended Number of Bulbs Per Square Foot?
20
Is It Deer/Critter Resistant?
Yes
How Can I Best Use It in My Landscaping?
In borders, beds, perennial gardens, pots and as cutflowers.
Other Popular Varieties
Usually only sold as 'Mixed Colors', occasionally by color: 'Giant' (white), 'Hogarth' (cream), 'Panorama' (purple-red), 'Rose Emperor' (pink), 'Spotlight' (yellow & red) and 'Venus' (red).
About the Family
Ixia Family
Native to South Africa.
Read More About the Family