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Bulbs, Tubers, and Roots
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Starlet Flowers
Rhodohypoxis Baurii
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Dainty fresh little stars of pink and white flowers hover above perky grass-like green leaves. Grown
from corms, the plants once completely spent can be brought back to life by holding in the refrigerator for 8-10
weeks, then watered.
The rhodohypoxis, also known as the Starlet Flower, comes from the high altitude regions of South Africa.
In its native habitat, it grows in clusters in open meadows or in between rocks and boulders. It blooms in
summer, adding the beauty of its delicate colors to the area's spectacular scenery.
Basic Cultural Tips
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Light:
Bright light (not full sun).
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Fertilizer:
Little or no fertilizer is needed in most soils.
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Temperature:
55½-65½ degrees Fahrenheit.
(tolerates 33½ - 85½ F)
To keep the intensity of the flower color, the plant must have bright light
(not full sun) and cooler temperatures. Warmer temperatures and lower light will produce flowers with lighter,
more muted colors.
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Watering:
Keep constantly moist (not soggy) during blooming season.
Generally speaking, the rhodohypoxis can be grown much like any other flowering bulb plant.
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After The Flowers Have Faded:
Even after the flowers have died, continue to keep the soil moist until all the leaves have turned yellow.
Discontinue watering at this time and allow the soil to dry. Keep the pot in the refrigerator for 8-12 weeks or
in the basement or garage through the fall and winter. In the spring, place the plant in a warm sunny area and
begin watering again. When the new shoots and the buds appear, bring the plant indoors and enjoy the flowers as
they bloom!
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For Outdoor Planting:
The rhodohypoxis may also be planted outdoors provided the temperature does not fall below 10½ F.
In the spring, take the corms out of the pot and plant outdoors in well draining soil in a protected, partly shaded
area of your yard. Plant corms 1-2 inches deep and 2-3 inches apart. They make a beautiful mound of dainty
starlet flowers and are especially nice in rock gardens.
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