Ixia
Ixia, the African corn lily, sends up slender spikes of jewel-bright, star-shaped flowers on wiry, almost grass-like stems. Florists reach for it as a delicate line flower that threads airy colour and movement through spring bouquets and garden-style designs. The blooms open in sunshine and close as light fades, and the palette spans clear whites and pinks to an unusual sea-green form. Long-lasting and well-priced, it brings a light, meadow-like grace to seasonal work through late spring.
| Family | Iridaceae |
|---|---|
| Origin | South Africa (Cape Floristic Region) |
| Peak season | May, June |
| Availability | April, May, June, July |
| Stem length | 40–60 cm |
| Vase life | 7–10 days |
| Colors | white, pink, yellow, red, orange, green |
| Price tier | mid |
Cut the wiry stems at an angle and place straight into clean, cool water with flower food to open the star-shaped buds. Ixia is sensitive to ethylene, so keep it away from ripening fruit and treat with an anti-ethylene solution if available. The flowers close in low light and open in sun, so display in a bright spot for full effect. Strip lower foliage and store cool to prolong the succession of blooms up the stem.
- •Recut stems and use fresh flower food
- •Keep away from ripening fruit to avoid ethylene damage
- •Display in bright light so flowers open fully
- •Strip lower leaves below the waterline
- •Store cool between 4-6C
