Sparkling Sparaxis
 We have a confession to make. While we probably aren't supposed to play favorites, we like sparaxis a lot. Let us outline why.
- Star-faced blooms - Bright, confetti colors characterize the flowers of this botanical pixie. Yellow, red, purple, coral, pink, and peach blossoms, most with a contrasting darker eye, are star-like and snappy.
- Small size - Some plants need lots of room to stretch and sprawl; this one doesn't. Topping out at just one foot tall, it fits easily in patio pots, window boxes and urns that are modestly sized.
- Spreading - If you have an impossible to mow slope that you'd like changed into a colorful blooming expanse, allow this tough spreader to naturalize. Start with affordable corms and let nature take its course. The results will be delightful.
- Simple Needs - Obviously any plant that naturalizes readily, isn't a high maintenance nightmare. This one requires so little tending, you'll forget about it. And it will be just fine.
For warm weather gardeners, sparaxis is a sensational sparkler. Sow some for yourself.
Brilliant Babiana
 Babiana got its name because baboons in its native South African lands were especially fond digging and eating its bulbs, or corms. That name is the only thing about this terrific plant that could use improvement.
Related to fragrant freesia, the "baboon flower" carries the same genetic ability to produce exceptionally aromatic blooms in great profusion. This tough plant grows in impoverished soils, with no extra water and naturalizes happily. With a mature height of only a foot and a pleasingly full form, babianas are an ideal candidate for container plantings.
Flowers on the "baboon plant" are small, numerous and strung along short, arching stems. Their colors cluster on the cool side of the color wheel with electric blues, purples, magentas and even pure white.
If you can provide the warm, lean conditions this plant enjoys - and you don't have baboons that frequent your garden - include babiana. With next to no care you'll be rewarded with brilliant blooms and sweet scents year after year.
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