How to Grow Scarlet Ixia

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Scarlet Ixia

Ixia cinnabarinum

flower

Scarlet Ixia is a tender South African bulb known for its striking crimson-red tubular flowers arranged in elegant spikes. It produces narrow, grass-like foliage and blooms in late spring to early summer with flowers that attract pollinators. This eye-catching perennial is typically grown as a tender annual or houseplant in cooler climates.

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Example Scarlet Ixia timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)

Plant Scarlet Ixia
Around Apr 17

Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
Tend & protect
Late spring–summer

Watering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
First Scarlet Ixia blooms
Around Aug 15

≈ 120 days after planting

Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Scarlet Ixia dates for your own zip code.

Growing Conditions

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Sun: Full sun, 6-8 hours daily

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Water: Moderate water during growing season; keep soil moist but not waterlogged. Reduce water after flowering and during dormancy. Very drought-tolerant once established.

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Spacing: 3-4 inches

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Days to maturity: 120-150 days from planting to first bloom

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Planting depth: 1-1.5 inches (bulbs)

Soil

Type: Well-draining sandy or gritty loam

pH: 6.0-7.0

Amendments:

Coarse sand Perlite or pumice Compost for organic matter

Growing Zones

Find your zone →

Thrives in zones 9-11; grown as an annual or container plant in cooler zones

9b 10a 10b 11a 11b

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Growth Stages

Dormancy/Planting

Before planting

Bulbs are dormant and ready for planting in fall (autumn-planted for spring bloom in mild climates) or spring in cool regions

Store bulbs in a cool, dry place until planting. Plant in well-draining soil to prevent rot.

Emergence

2-3 weeks

Thin, grass-like green shoots emerge from soil; foliage develops rapidly

Water lightly after planting; ensure good drainage. Protect from heavy rain.

Vegetative Growth

4-6 weeks

Tall, slender stems (12-20 inches) develop with narrow linear leaves; plant builds energy reserves

Water moderately; apply balanced fertilizer monthly. Stake if needed in windy locations.

Flowering

3-4 weeks

Spikes of 6-15 tubular crimson-red flowers open sequentially from bottom to top of spike; blooms are long-lasting

Continue regular watering and fertilizing. Deadhead spent flowers to encourage longer blooming. Stake taller varieties.

Seed Development & Dormancy

4-6 weeks

Flowers fade, seed pods form; foliage begins to yellow and die back naturally

Reduce watering gradually as foliage dies back. In zones 9-11, allow bulbs to dry out; in cooler zones, lift and store bulbs indoors.

Companion Planting

Plan your garden →

Plant with:

Lavender Statice (Limonium) Gaura Eryngium Ornamental grasses Dianthus

Avoid planting near:

Plants requiring heavy moisture Dense shade-loving plants Aggressive spreading perennials

Common Pests

Increase humidity with misting; spray with neem oil or insecticidal soap; ensure good air circulation
Remove affected flowers; use sticky traps; spray with neem oil or pyrethrin insecticide
Plant only in well-draining soil; avoid overwatering; remove infected bulbs; improve air circulation
and
Use bulb cages or gopher baskets; plant in containers; apply capsaicin-based repellents

Uses

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Ornamental cut flowers

Culinary

Scarlet Ixia spikes are prized for fresh flower arrangements and modern floral designs. The dramatic crimson color and unique tubular form add architectural interest to bouquets. [source]

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Dried flower arrangements

Craft

Flowers can be dried for long-lasting arrangements and wreaths. Hang dry in a warm, dark place for best color retention. [source]

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Pollinator attraction

Wildlife

The tubular red flowers attract hummingbirds, bees, and butterflies, making this an excellent choice for pollinator gardens. The spike inflorescence provides multiple landing surfaces. [source]

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Container gardening

Household

Scarlet Ixia thrives in pots and containers, allowing gardeners in cold climates to grow this tender bulb indoors. Container-grown plants can be moved to protect from frost. [source]

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Traditional ornamental use

Medicinal

While not used medicinally today, Ixia species have been valued in traditional South African horticulture and ethnobotany. The plant is primarily grown for its striking ornamental value. [source]

This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.

Harvest Tips

Cut stems for fresh arrangements when the lowest 2-3 flowers on the spike are open; they continue to open in water. Harvest in early morning for best vase life. Individual flowers last 1-2 days; entire spike lasts 1-2 weeks in water. Allow bulbs to fully die back naturally in ground before lifting for storage.

Fun Facts

🌱 The genus name 'Ixia' comes from the Greek word for 'birdlime,' referring to the sticky substance on flower stems that may trap small insects
🌱 Scarlet Ixia is endemic to South Africa and was introduced to European gardens in the 18th century, becoming a favorite of Victorian gardeners
🌱 The flowers open in sequence from bottom to top along the spike, creating a dynamic, long-lasting bloom display that changes throughout the day

Gardening Terms

New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:

Annual Deadhead Full Sun Perennial

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