Harlequin flowers (Sparaxis)

Harlequin flowers

Also known as: Wandflower

Harlequin flowers are popular garden ornamentals with dozens of hybrids bred and cultivated. These bright-colored flowering plants start to grow from a bulb during winter, bloom in spring, and go dormant when summer arrives. Native to South Africa, they are extremely tender perennials that can not survive low temperatures and light frost.

Scientific classification

Genus

Harlequin flowers (Sparaxis)

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Perennial

Lifespan

30 cm

Plant Height

40 cm

Spread

Slow

Growth Rate

Images of Harlequin flowers

Species

Harlequin flower Harlequin flower Elegant silklily Sparaxis metelerkampiae Plain harlequin flower

Quickly Identify Harlequin flowers

Spring-blooming star-shaped flowers with vibrant colors and striking markings.

Capsules containing 8-15 seeds per locule with distinct, hard, shiny seed coats.

Sword-shaped leaves up to 12 inches (30 cm) long, with prominent parallel veins.

Upright stem, 0.25-0.5 inches (0.6-1.3 cm) thick, lacking spines or thorns.

Perennial bulbous plant with delicate, frost-tender flowers, dormant foliage in summer.

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Care Guide for Harlequin flowers

Every 1-2 weeks

Water

Water: Originating from South Africa, harlequin flowers is drought-tolerant and thrives in well-drained soil. Water every 1-2 weeks, allowing soil to dry between sessions. Typically grown outdoors, harlequin flowers enters dormancy post-flowering, requiring minimal water during this period.

Propagation: Propagation of harlequin flowers primarily involves corm division or seed sowing, requiring proper temperature, light, and well-draining soil. Division timing follows foliage die-back, supplemented by a dormancy period. Key steps include digging, separating, drying, planting, and providing light watering and exposure.

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Learn More About Harlequin flowers

How to Grow and Care

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