Harlequin flower (Sparaxis tricolor)
Care, watering, light and tips for Harlequin flower on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Iridaceae
- Difficulty: Easy to care for
- Watering: every 7 days
- Light: Partial shade
- Temperature: 10–30 °C
- Toxicity: Toxic to pets
About Harlequin flower
Sparaxis tricolor, also known as the Wandflower, is a bulbous plant native to South Africa, distinguished by its showy, star-shaped flowers, often with a contrasting center. Its vibrant petals in shades of orange, red, pink, and white make it an excellent choice for garden borders, pots, and flowerbeds, adding an exotic and colorful touch. It is ideal for creating focal points or for bringing cheer to sunny, well-drained landscapes.
Native range
South Africa
Care tips
This plant requires full sun for abundant flowering, ideally 6 to 8 hours daily. Watering should be moderate during the growing and blooming season, allowing the substrate to dry out slightly between waterings, and drastically reduced once the foliage yellows. It prefers well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral soils; sandy or well-draining soil is crucial to prevent bulb rot. A common mistake is overwatering, especially during dormancy, which can lead to bulb rot.
How to save a dying Harlequin flower
- Warning signs
- Yellowish or soft leaves, drooping stems, lack of flowering, or prematurely wilted flowers.
- First aid
- Check drainage and substrate moisture. Move to a cooler spot if too hot. Prune withered flowers and leaves.
- What kills it
- Overwatering, especially in heavy soils. Also lack of direct sun or freezing temperatures.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if you act quickly. A healthy bulb can resprout. Check the bulb for rot.