Ixia (African Corn Lily)

Ixia are valued for their brilliant star-shaped flowers that float on willowy stems so slender that they're close to invisible, giving the impression that the blossoms are hanging in thin air. The blooms, arranged spirally around the stems so as to be pretty from all side, span a wide color range from whites and yellows through blues and deep reds.

Hailing from the southwestern Cape of South Africa, these irises relatives evidence the family traits with the narrow, grass-like foliage and spiky flower stalks. Individual ixia flowers are sometimes festooned with darker centers and a number of varieties also emit a pleasing fragrance. Butterflies are fond of ixia and frequent gardens where these plants grow. Plant ixia in groups of 10 or more for the greatest visual impact.

Florists are just beginning to realize the value of ixia in arrangements and as a result, these flowers are starting to show up as cuts. Of course, you could grow your own, guaranteeing absolute freshness and the availability of your personal color preference.

Note: Prices are for packages of 25 freshly harvested bulbs.

Shipping: Freshly harvested Ixia bulbs (corms) are shipped from mid September through December for immediate planting.