White-And-Yellow-Flower Cornlily

(Ixia polystachya)

White-And-Yellow-Flower Cornlily (Ixia polystachya)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Ixia polystachya, commonly known as white-and-yellow-flower cornlily, is a perennial herb native to the fynbos and renosterveld vegetation types within the Western Cape and Northern Cape provinces of South Africa. It is typically found on sandy or stony slopes and flats, often in seasonally moist sites. This species reaches a height of 12-24 inches (30-60 cm) and produces slender, erect stems. The flowers are star-shaped, with six tepals that are white with a yellow center, blooming in the spring to early summer. The blooms are quite showy and make for an attractive display in the garden.

White-and-yellow-flower cornlily is valued for its striking flowers and is often used in borders, rock gardens, and as cut flowers due to their long vase life. It is also suitable for naturalizing in areas with a Mediterranean climate. This Ixia species prefers well-drained soils, is drought-tolerant once established, and requires full sun to flourish. While it is relatively low maintenance, it can be susceptible to fungal diseases if conditions are too damp. It is not known for being invasive but should be monitored to prevent unwanted spread.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb, Bulb
  • Height: 1-1.5 feet
  • Width: 0.5-1 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: Pink, Purple, White
  • Flowering Season: Spring
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun
  • Water: Medium, High
  • Drainage: Medium

Common Uses

Border Plant, Low Maintenance, Potted Plant, Rock Garden

Natural Habitat

Native to fynbos and renosterveld vegetation types within the Western Cape and Northern Cape provinces of South Africa

Other Names

Common Names: African Corn Lily

Scientific Names: , Ixia polystachya, Ixia aristata var. elegans, Ixia elegans, Ixia erecta, Ixia erecta, Ixia erecta var. lutea, Ixia hybrida, Ixia hybrida, Ixia maculata var. caesia

GBIF Accepted Name: