Hypoxis hirsuta

A hardy caudiciform species.

An evergreen or semi-evergreen plant with an underground or semi-exposed caudex from which long, tapering leaves develop, with ciliate margins and undersides. Erect or semi-pendulous inflorescences bear numerous yellow, six-petalled flowers that open in succession.

A species native to the eastern and Midwestern United States (Nebraska, Kansas, Illinois, Maine, Florida, Texas) and Canada (Manitoba). In nature, it grows in numerous habitats: open woodlands, prairies, slope edges, peat bogs, sandstone clearings, abandoned fields, meadows, and along roadsides, in shady locations and in moist or dry soils, occasionally in open deciduous woodlands; however, it appears to prefer soils with a high limestone content.

It can be successfully grown in a fairly well-drained substrate and in full sun or partial shade. It requires regular watering during the summer, while in winter it can remain partially dry, although winter humidity does not bother it.

A very hardy species, it can tolerate temperatures as low as -20°C.

Plant in a 16 cm diameter pot.