Ixia is a genus of short-lived perennials that gives us a number of ornamental plants referred to as ‘African Corn Lilies’.
They grow from corms (sometimes called bulbs) and might be grown as annuals in the UK or given a protected site in winter to make it through to subsequent years.
Ixias are South African plants which bloom in an interesting variety of colours, producing attractive, star-shaped blooms.
The star-shaped flowers form on wiry stems and make great cut flowers, so they are often used in floral arrangements and for cut flower displays inside the home – as well as looking good in the garden.
Though not necessarily the easiest plants to grow in wetter, cooler regions of the UK, they can potentially be a good choice for the warmest and most arid regions, since these plants appreciate warm and relatively dry conditions.
“The warmest winter locations in the UK also tend to be the wettest, such as on the western coasts,” explains Master Horticulturist Colin Skelly.
“Growing in raised beds on slopes and sandy soils will help Ixia bulbs survive outside in milder regions.”
With their vibrant, colorful blooms, African corn lilies (Ixia species) are a beloved addition to gardens and landscapes However, like all plants, they require proper care and attention, especially when it comes to watering Understanding the water needs of African corn lily flowers is key to helping them thrive. In this article, we will dive into the details of how much water these exotic beauties need.
An Overview of African Corn Lilies
Native to South Africa, African corn lilies are known botanically as Ixia They belong to the iris family and produce delicate flowers that come in shades of pink, orange, yellow, purple and white The blooms emerge in late spring or early summer on slender stalks amid grass-like foliage. After flowering, the plants go dormant in summer and the foliage dies back.
African corn lilies grow from bulbs called corms that store water and nutrients underground. This allows them to survive hot, dry summers in their native habitat, which has a Mediterranean climate. The corms sprout again when cooler, wetter conditions return.
Factors That Influence Water Needs
When growing African corn lilies, several key factors play a role in determining how much water they need
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Climate – Hot, dry climates require more frequent watering than cooler, more humid environments. Adjust watering based on your local conditions.
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Soil type – Well-draining soil is ideal, as corn lilies don’t tolerate soggy conditions. Sandy or loamy soils need more frequent watering than moisture-retentive clay.
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Sun exposure – Corn lilies in full sun generally require more water than those grown in partial shade.
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Plant maturity – Younger, establishing plants need more frequent watering than mature, established specimens.
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Time of year – Watering needs are higher during the active growing and flowering season than when plants are dormant.
Best Practices for Watering
Taking these factors into account, here are some general guidelines for watering African corn lily flowers:
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Water deeply and thoroughly, not frequently and shallowly. This encourages deeper root growth.
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Allow the top 1-2 inches of soil to dry out between waterings. Avoid constantly soggy soil.
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During the growing season, provide around 1 inch of water per week, adjusted as needed.
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Water at soil level instead of overhead to keep foliage dry and prevent diseases.
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Water in the morning so leaves can dry out during the day.
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Use drip irrigation or soaker hoses to target soil and minimize evaporation.
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Increase frequency during hot, dry weather and reduce in cool or humid conditions.
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Provide very minimal water, if any, while plants are dormant.
Warning Signs of Under or Overwatering
It’s important to recognize the visible symptoms of too much or too little water for African corn lilies:
Underwatering: Wilting, drooping leaves, yellowing, dried foliage, stunted growth
Overwatering: Yellow foliage, leaf drop, soft/mushy stems, fungal disease, root rot
Adjust your watering practices as needed based on these signs to keep your corn lilies looking their best.
Providing Proper Moisture for Optimal Growth
With their bold colors and delicate beauty, African corn lily flowers deserve special care and attention in the garden. Understanding their water preferences, accounting for local growing conditions, and following best watering practices will mimic their natural environment. This will enable your African corn lilies to stay hydrated, healthy and bursting with vivid blooms year after year.
How To Grow Ixia
Ixia can be grown in the ground when grown as annuals or potentially as perennials in the very mildest parts of the UK, where frosts are not typically expected.
They can also be grown in containers, which can be a good idea for most growers in the British Isles because it allows for them to be brought indoors or undercover before colder weather arrives.
The bulbs can begin to experience damage when temperatures fall below -2°C.
Winter wet can also be an issue, even sometimes more of an issue than the winter cold, so they must be protected for winter in most areas.
Containers can be moved to a heated area indoors or in a greenhouse.
Corms left in the ground might also, in milder areas, simply be protected with a thick organic mulch in winter or you can lift the corms and store them until the following year.
Ixia needs to be grown in as warm a location as possible in full sun.
They will not thrive or bloom well in a cooler or more shaded spot and need to be sheltered from the wind and cold breezes.
They can be placed in a location with a south, east or west-facing aspect, as long as it is a sheltered and warm spot with full sun.
Ideally, Ixia will be placed in sandy soil that is free-draining or an equally free-draining potting mix in a container.
Drainage is particularly important as the corms have a tendency to rot if growing conditions become waterlogged.
How to plant a pot of Ixia (corn lily)
FAQ
How much water does a lily flower need?
How tall do African corn lilies get?
Do Ixia come back every year?
How do you grow African corn lilies?
African corn lilies are typically grown from corms, which are small, bulb-like structures. Plant the corms in the fall or early spring, about 2 inches deep and 4 inches apart. Cover them with soil and water thoroughly. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged, as excessive moisture can cause the corms to rot. 4. Watering and Fertilizing
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.
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.
What is the best soil for African corn lilies?
The ideal soil for African corn lilies is well-draining and slightly acidic, with a pH between 6.0 and 6.5. If your soil is too alkaline, consider amending it with sulfur or aluminum sulfate to lower the pH. Adding organic matter, such as compost or well-rotted manure, will improve the soil’s fertility and drainage.