Polyxena are a small but varied genus of bulbs originally from South Africa. Polyxena Species are interesting for their different forms. Related to hyacinths they have wonderful foliage and very attractive flowers. Some species such as the pink flowering P. longitubea, are perfumed.
They are winter flowering and require a dry summer dormancy, this make them a little hard to maintain outside the natural environment.
Moisture in summer usually means a fungal disease and this is the biggest problem.
Probably best suited to collectors and enthusiasts as these small plants are very fussy and are best grown in containers.
Polyxena Care
Best grown in pots Polyxena flower during Autumn and Winter.
- Use a free draining potting mix.
- Keep dry over summer to autumn.
- Water from mid winter, and then regularly as new growth begins.
Species include:
- P. brevifolia – Very similar to P. corymbosa.
- P. corymbosa – We think the most attractive flowers of the genus, pale lilac with a deeper marking.
- P. ensifolia – With large flattened leaves and white to pink flowers, this species has the most interesting foliage.
- P. longituba – Grass like upright foliage and small white flowers near the base.
- P. maughani – Competes with P. ensifolia for foliage which is broad but more upright, white flowers are held closely
- P. paucifolia -Rounded grass like upright leaves with pale mauve flowers.
- P. pygmaea – Broad grass like leaves with pale mauve flowers.