Ixias

African Corn Lily: A Flower That Thrives In Hot And Dry Climates
Ixia, also known as “African Corn Lilies” or “wand flowers”, remains a hidden gem in many gardens. These graceful plants produce tall, slender spikes filled with cheerful, star-shaped flowers, each centered with a vivid eye. Each bulb produces a stunning display, with multiple stems supporting up to 20 blossoms. Their appearance makes them ideal for borders, beds, and containers. They are also an excellent addition as cut flowers to flower arrangements. They perform particularly well in sunny areas, such as the American Southwest.

Alongside their colorful charm, Ixias are easy to grow and emit a delicate, pleasant fragrance that enhances your outdoor space. Their blooms attract bees and butterflies, bringing movement and life into the garden. If you’re looking for an easy and rewarding flower, Ixia is a dependable and beautiful choice.

Colorful Varieties: From Ixia Mabel To Ixia Hogarth
If you’re drawn to vivid colors, Ixia is an ideal choice. Its striking flowers bloom in brilliant shades of red, pink, purple, and yellow, adding energy to any garden. Prefer something softer? Ixia also comes in gentle tones like cream, white, and beige, which are perfect for a more subtle look. Here is a selection of our assortment:

• Ixia “Mabel”: This variety features upright panicles adorned with long-lasting, star-shaped flowers in a vibrant magenta hue.
• Ixia “Paniculata Eos”: This is a true standout in any garden with its delightful display of soft apricot-yellow flowers.
• Ixia “Giant”: This beautiful variety has white petals adorned with a blue central blotch.
• Ixia “Hogarth”: This Ixia variety proudly displays upright panicles adorned with star-shaped, creamy-white flowers, each beautifully accentuated by a reddish-purple center.

Can’t choose between the colors? Go for a mixed Ixia blend and enjoy a vibrant, ever-changing palette throughout the blooming season.

How To Grow Ixia Bulbs For Maximum Effect In Your Garden
To achieve the best results with your Ixia bulbs, timing and placement are crucial. Ixias are fall-planted bulbs, so it is essential to plant them in the fall. Wait until the soil temperature drops to 60°F or lower before planting, which typically occurs between September and November, depending on your USDA zone.

Start by choosing a sunny location with well-drained soil. Ixia does well in full sun, but it can also tolerate partial shade. When you’re ready to plant, place the bulbs about 3–4 inches deep and space them 2–3 inches apart with the pointed ends facing upward. In containers, you can experiment with placing the bulbs closer together, but make sure they never touch. Once planted, water them well once, and then let nature take its course. Do you live in USDA hardiness zones 3–7? Store the container indoors during the winter in a cool, dry spot.

After your Ixia flowers have bloomed, allow the leaves to yellow and die back naturally. This process helps the bulb store energy for the next growing season. Are you looking for more tips? Follow the steps in our growing guide “How to Grow Ixia?”.

Explore Top-Quality Ixia Bulbs For Sale At DutchGrown
At DutchGrown, we offer a carefully curated collection of top-sized Ixia bulbs, selected for their exceptional performance and vibrant colors. Each bulb is carefully sourced, ensuring you receive only the highest quality for your garden. Whether you're drawn to bold reds or soft creams, our range includes standout varieties and stunning mixes. Browse our collection and enjoy a season filled with color, character, and charm. We ship throughout the US.

Frequently Asked Questions About Ixia Bulbs

What Is The Common Name For Ixia?
The most common names for Ixia are “African Corn Lilies” and “wand flowers.” Ixia is part of the Iris family (Iridaceae). Native to the Cape Provinces of South Africa, it is now widely cultivated as an ornamental plant in gardens worldwide for its vibrant colors and graceful form.

Where Is The Best Place To Plant Ixia?
Ixia thrives in hot, dry climates. To achieve the best results, select a sunny or partially shaded area with well-drained soil to prevent the bulbs from rotting. Ixia is perfectly suited for borders, beds, and containers in USDA Zones 7–10. With the right location, you’ll enjoy strong, upright blooms and a garden full of vibrant color each season.

Is Ixia Easy To Grow?
Ixia is very easy to grow and requires little maintenance. Once you plant it in well-draining soil in a sunny spot, the hardy bulb will take care of itself. Simply water them after planting and only give water when it hasn't rained for 3–5 days.

Does Ixia Come Back Every Year?
Ixias are generally considered perennials, and with proper care and optimal growing conditions, they can return year after year. If you live in an area with cold winters, you will need to protect the bulbs from frost.

When Can I Plant Ixia Bulbs? 
Ixia bulbs are best planted in the fall when the soil temperature drops below 60°F, usually between September and November, depending on your USDA zone. This allows them to develop strong roots and sprout vigorously in the spring.