Harlequin flower - Sparaxis tricolor (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images)

Harlequin flower

Also known as: Scarlet wand flower, Sparaxis

Harlequin flower (Sparaxis tricolor) is a bulb-forming perennial species named for its colorful flowers. Harlequin flower is native to South Africa. This species is considered easy to grow and disease free. It is often cultivated in gardens and is also known as the wandflower and sparaxis.

Scientific classification

Species

Harlequin flower (Sparaxis tricolor)

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Herb

Plant Type

Spring, Summer

Bloom Time

10 cm to 40 cm

Plant Height

7 cm to 12 cm

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

5 cm

Flower Size

Red, Orange, Yellow, Purple, White, Black

Flower Color

Green, Red, Yellow, Purple, Orange, Black

Stem Color

Deciduous

Leaf type

Images of Harlequin flower

Distribution of Harlequin flower

Distribution Map

Harlequin flower is native to the southern parts of the African continent, where it thrives in its natural habitat. The plant has expanded its presence as an introduced species in regions of Oceania, South America, and the southern part of Europe. It is also widely cultivated for its ornamental qualities.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Gardens, Dump sites, Abandoned dwellings

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Flowering

Fruiting

Culture

Symbolism

Meanings

Interesting Facts

The botanical name of Sparaxis tricolor was derived from the Greek word 'sparasso' meaning 'to tear'. That refers to the torn tips of the harlequin flower bracts. The specific epithet 'tricolor' refers to its colorful flowers that sometimes feature two or three colors.

Name Story

Harlequin flower: The name harlequin flower comes from the word 'harlequin'. In the past, a harlequin was a humorous character in plays at the theatre, dressed in brightly colored clothes, usually with a diamond pattern. The word is commonly used to describe something multicolored, often in a diamond pattern, so Sparaxis tricolor got its name thanks to its attractive tri-colored flowers.

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Care Guide for Harlequin flower

Every 1-2 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Originating from South Africa, harlequin flower thrives in moderate moisture and requires balanced watering every 1-2 weeks, with soil drying slightly in between. Its vibrant blooms depend on water availability, necessitating careful irrigation during the active growing season for optimal display.

Fertilize: Harlequin flower thrives with a balanced fertilizer (10-10-10) every 4-6 weeks during its growing season, while high phosphorus fertilizers promote blooming. Reduce feeding during dormancy and water well after application to prevent damage. Adjust the fertilizer based on harlequin flower's life cycle to avoid root burn.

Pruning: Harlequin flower flourishes with proper pruning, ideally in early to late spring post-frost. Lightly remove spent blooms and dead leaves to promote new growth and combat disease. This practice enhances air circulation, sunlight penetration, and overall health, resulting in a more vigorous bloom for the next season.

Propagation: Harlequin flower, a bulbous perennial from the Iridaceae family, is renowned for its star-shaped, colorful blooms. Propagation via gentle division of offsets is crucial, ensuring each segment retains part of the root. Planting in well-drained soil promotes robust growth and vibrant displays.

Repotting: Repot harlequin flower every 2-3 years in late summer, using a pot slightly larger than the bulb clusters. Ensure good drainage and water sparingly post-repotting to promote new growth. This routine supports harlequin flower's vibrant tri-colored blooms.

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Images of Harlequin flower

Distribution of Harlequin flower

Culture

Care Guide for Harlequin flower

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