Common Name:

General Information

Hypoxis colchicifolia is a herbaceous perennial plant producing a cluster of 4 - 8 grass-like leaves around 10 - 60cm long and 3 - 11cm wide from a corm-like tuber; it can grow around 25 - 60cm tall[].
The plant is widely used in traditional medicine in South Africa, where the root is collected from the natural environment on a mass scale[]. The plant is sometimes grown as an ornamental[].

Known Hazards

None known

Botanical References

Range

Southern Africa - eastern S. Africa from Cape Province to KwaZulu-Natal

Habitat

Grass slopes and rocky outcrops, on sand and loamy soils[].

Properties

Medicinal Rating
Habit	Perennial
Height	0.40 m
Pollinators	Insects
Cultivation Status	Ornamental, Wild

Cultivation Details

Hypoxis species are generally not very cold tolerant plants and most species are badly damaged or killed by even light frosts. The majority of the S. African species come from summer rainfall areas with litle or no winter rain, and most species will usually grow well in a Mediterranean type of climate with little or no frost[].
Species in this genus generally require a light, freely draining soil and a position in full sun or light shade[]. This species is often found growing in sandy or nutrient-poor soils in the wild[].
Hypoxis species greatly resent root disturbance, plants should be placed in their permanent positions as soon as possible and left undisturbed for as long as possible[].
The plant often experiences fires in its natural environment. Although top growth is killed, the tuber usually survives and resprouts afterwards[].

Edible Uses

None known

Medicinal

The corm is used as an emetic and purgative, and also in the treatment of diabetes, cancer and osteoporosis[]. Infusions are drunk as a treatment for impotenct, barrenness, hysterical fits and acne[].

Other Uses

None known

Propagation

Seed - best sown as soon as it is ripe[].
Division.