Ixia Bulbs, Flowers and Plants

Originally from South Africa Ixia are a corm, rather than a bulb that flower in spring I. maculate, and the much sought after striking I. viridifolia a turquoise flowering species with dark centred flowers are the two best known species in Australia. Clump forming and drought tolerant they also grow well in containers. Foliage consists of narrow sword shaped leaves

Also known as the 'corn lily or wand flowers' Ixia make great cut flowers courtesy of the tall strong stems. I maculate is a yellow flowering species, but variable with tones ranging from yellow through to red (picture right) and almost purple.

Plant Care and Growing conditions

These plants are originally from fairly free draining sunny positions and require this to grow well. A free draining good quality potting mix will be required if growing in pots. Ixia do not require a lot of fertiliser, however as clumps expand soil will naturally become exhausted and larger clumps can be divided and replanted during summer dormancy. Water when new growth starts, but Ixia are fairly drought tolerant.