Care of the bulbous plant Ixia viridiflora or Turquoise ixia |
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The genus Ixia, family Iridaceae, comprises 30 species of bulbous plants native to southern Africa. Some species are: Ixia viridiflora, Ixia maculata, Ixia dubia, Ixia monadelpha, Ixia polystachya. Common names: Turquoise ixia, Green ixia, Green-flowered corn lily. This species is native to South Africa. They are bulbous plants with long, thin leaves of deep green color. The attractive flowers appear on thin stems, have 6 petals, are star shaped and can be white or turquoise in color. They bloom from the second half of spring to late summer. They are used in pots for balconies, terraces and patios, in rockeries and to form mixed borders; They are also used as cut flowers for floral decorations and bouquets. Ixia viridiflora prefers full sun exposure and high temperatures. They resist occasional frosts. The soil can be a mixture of 1/3 garden substrate, 1/3 peat and 1/3 sand. The planting of the bulbs is done in autumn. Water moderately at the rate of one glass of water per plant every 2 days in spring and summer. The rest of the year reduce watering. Fertilize every 2 weeks with mineral fertilizer to promote flowering. They do not need pruning. They are plants resistant to pests and diseases but sensitive to excess watering. They propagate by division of bulbs in summer that will be dug up and planted in autumn. |
Images of the bulbous plant Ixia viridiflora or Turquoise ixia |
 Ixia viridiflora  Ixia viridiflora  Ixia viridiflora  Ixia viridiflora  Ixia viridiflora |