Ixia species is commonly grown for its showy clusters of star-shaped flowers borne on thin, wiry stems. Ixia flowers from spring to summer and comes in a range of bright colors– orange, pink, red, white, and yellow with contrasting centers.
Ixia species is commonly called ixias, corn lilies, and wand flowers. Individual blooms have six petal-like tepals. Flowers appear on long, loose spikes above grass-like mostly basal leaves. A few small leaves appear on the long flowering spikes. Flowers are arranged in two ranks or rows.
Ixia is grown from corms. Corms will rot if left in wet soil, especially in winter. Plant Ixia on mounds in regions where there is plentiful rainfall.
African corn lilies, also known as Ixia, are beautiful flowering plants that can add a pop of vibrancy and elegance to any garden when planted properly. Their star-shaped blooms come in shades of pink, red, orange, yellow and white, making them a stunning addition to outdoor spaces. However, proper spacing is crucial when planting these delicate flowers in order to promote healthy growth and achieve the desired visual impact. This article provides tips on how much space to leave between each African corn lily for optimal results.
African corn lilies belong to the Iridaceae plant family and are native to South Africa They grow from corms, which resemble bulbs, and produce slender stalks up to 24 inches tall topped with clustered blooms The flowers typically emerge in late spring or early summer and last for several weeks when cared for properly.
These plants thrive in zones 7-10 and prefer full sun exposure and sandy well-drained soil. They are relatively low maintenance but require moderate watering during the growing season.African corn lilies spread rapidly when happy and will produce little offsets that can be divided and replanted.
Spacing Considerations for African Corn Lilies
When planting African corn lilies, there are a few key factors to consider that will determine the ideal spacing:
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Mature plant size – African corn lilies have varying mature heights and spreads depending on the variety. Dwarf varieties may only reach 6 inches tall while larger cultivars can exceed 2 feet in height. Space plants according to their expected mature dimensions.
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Growing conditions – Plants grown in less than ideal conditions will likely stay more compact and require less spacing than those grown in prime conditions. Evaluate sunlight, soil quality, climate etc.
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Desired visual appeal – Decide if you want a dense clump of flowers or a more dispersed arrangement and space accordingly.
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Planting location – Allow more space between plants grown in the ground versus close together in containers.
Recommended Spacing Guidelines
Based on their growth habits, here are some general spacing guidelines to follow:
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Small varieties (6-12 inches tall) – Space 4-6 inches apart.
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Medium varieties (12-24 inches tall) – Space 8-12 inches apart.
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Large varieties (24+ inches tall) – Space 12-18 inches apart.
However, you may need to adjust spacing depending on your specific growing conditions and preferences.
Planting Tips for African Corn Lilies
Follow these tips to ensure your African corn lilies grow and bloom successfully:
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Prepare soil with organic matter to improve drainage and provide nutrients.
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Plant corms 2-3 inches deep with pointed ends up in early spring once danger of frost has passed.
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Water newly planted corms regularly until established.
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Apply mulch around plants to retain moisture and prevent weeds.
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Divide overcrowded clumps and replant offsets every 2-3 years.
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Deadhead spent blooms to encourage continuous flowering.
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Provide partial shade in hot climates to prevent leaf scorch.
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Avoid overwatering and heavily saturated soil.
Achieving the Optimal Aesthetic
Properly spacing African corn lilies will prevent overcrowding while allowing you to achieve the desired visual look. For a bold carpet of color, space plants closer together. For a more dispersed, natural effect space farther apart. Play around with arrangement patterns like rows, groups and drifts. Combine colors for visual interest. Let plant sizes and growth habits guide you in allotting each African corn lily sufficient room to reach its full potential.
The Benefits of Proper Spacing
Allowing adequate space between African corn lilies improves air circulation and light exposure, leading to healthier, more vigorous plants. They will have ample room for root and foliar growth without competing for space and nutrients. Close spacing can result in floppy stalks, weak stems, smaller blooms, diseases and minimal spread. Ensure your African corn lilies display their fullest beauty and growth by providing the suggested spacing for your variety and growing conditions.
With their colorful, elegant blooms and easygoing nature, African corn lilies are a joy to grow. Respect their space requirements for maximum satisfaction from these South African beauties. Ample spacing brings the reward of robust plants and breath-taking floral displays year after year. Let these simple guidelines eliminate the guesswork so you can plant with confidence and enjoy a thriving crop of exquisitely colored flowers.
Where to plant Ixia – Corn Lily
- Plant Ixia in full sun.
- Plant Ixia in sandy to humus-rich, well-drained loam.
- Ixia prefers dry soil during its dormant winter period.
- Ixia prefers a soil pH of 6.5-7.0.
- Where Ixia is marginally hardy, plant them in a protected spot such as a south-facing wall.
How to water and feed Ixia – Corn Lily
- Keep the soil evenly moist but not wet; they should never be wet or completely dry.
- Fertilize Ixia with an all-purpose fertilizer during the growing season.
- Ixia growing in containers should be fed a dilute, balanced fertilizer every two weeks through the growing season.
Ixia viridiflora, flower buds
How to plant a pot of Ixia (corn lily)
FAQ
How do you plant African corn lilies?
Do Ixia bulbs multiply?
Do Ixia come back every year?
Are African corn lilies perennials?
Can You Grow African corn lily outside?
The African corn lily, scientifically known as Ixia, is a captivating plant that adds vibrancy and charm to any garden or indoor space. If you’re growing the plant outdoors, dig up the corms in the fall before the first frost and store them in a cool, dry place.
How to propagate African corn lily?
The propagation of this plant is also done through seeds; however, it might take three years or more for them to bloom. The Ixia flower seeds should be covered with soil once the last spring frost has passed. The African corn lily also propagates naturally through insects and bees.
How do you care for African corn lilies?
African corn lilies require regular watering, especially during the growing season. Water the plant deeply but infrequently, allowing the top inch of soil to dry out before watering again. Fertilize the plant every two weeks with a balanced liquid fertilizer, diluted to half strength. Stop fertilizing in the fall when the plant goes dormant. 5.
What is an African corn lily?
The African corn lily, scientifically known as Ixia, is a captivating plant that adds vibrancy and charm to any garden or indoor space. With its striking flowers and easy-care nature, it’s a popular choice among gardening enthusiasts.