Ixia Hogarth - Corn Lily

Ixia 'Hogarth', or corn lily, is a small summer bulb prized for its spikes of star-shaped flowers that are cream-coloured with an almost black purple heart. It forms thin clumps of linear leaves from which graceful flowering stems emerge, used as cut flowers. In well-drained soil, Ixia 'Hogarth' proves reliable, provided its summer dormancy period is respected and it is protected from severe frosts. It fits into a naturalistic border, a rockery, or a scree garden.

This plant belongs to the Iridaceae family, like irises and crocosmias. The genus Ixia is native to South Africa, particularly around the Cape, where it colonises sunny prairies and rocky slopes. These regions have a Mediterranean climate with rainy winters and dry summers. Its cycle follows directly from this: the corms awaken with the late winter rains, produce leaves and stems in spring, flower in late spring, and then disappear in summer to await the next season in dry, well-drained soil. In the garden, this translates to specific needs: well-drained soil without waterlogging and a degree of dryness in summer. In mild climates, the corms can remain in place for several years; in colder or very wet climates, they are lifted after the foliage yellows, allowed to dry, and then stored in a cool, dry place until replanting. Its hardiness remains limited (-5°C): prolonged frosts and winter moisture are more problematic than dry cold.
'Hogarth' develops narrow, dark green, sword-shaped foliage that forms a dense clump at the base. Above the foliage rise thin stems bearing panicles of star-shaped flowers 4-5 cm in diameter, creamy white to yellowish cream, each marked with a contrasting reddish-purple central eye. Flowering occurs from May to July, depending on the planting date and climate.

In the garden, Ixia 'Hogarth' is best placed in tight groups at the front of a sunny border, in a sheltered rockery, or in a gravel garden; its light silhouette pairs well with stones and small ornamental grasses for dry soil. It accompanies the blue spikes of a Perovskia atriplicifolia 'Lacey Blue' or the foliage of bronze fennel. It can also be tucked between dwarf roses or woodland sages (Salvia nemorosa) to enliven the base of bushes. In pots, use a very free-draining mix and overwinter the containers frost-free, which allows you to enjoy its flowers even on a patio or balcony.