Sparaxis bulbifera

{{Short description|Species of flowering plant}}

{{Speciesbox

|image = Sparaxis bulbifera (Flower) 2.jpg

|status =

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|status_ref =

|genus = Sparaxis

|species = bulbifera

|authority = (L.) Ker Gawl.

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Sparaxis bulbifera, commonly known as harlequin flower, is a bulb-forming perennial plant. The species is native to Cape Province in South Africa and naturalised in the Azores and Australia.{{cite web |url=http://www.anbg.gov.au/cgi-bin/apni?TAXON_NAME=Sparaxis+bulbifera|title=Sparaxis bulbifera |accessdate=18 March 2012 |work= Australian Plant Name Index (APNI), IBIS database|publisher = Centre for Plant Biodiversity Research, Australian Government, Canberra}}{{cite web|title=Harlequin flower Sparaxis bulbifera|work=Weeds of Australia|url=http://keyserver.lucidcentral.org/weeds/data/03030800-0b07-490a-8d04-0605030c0f01/media/Html/Sparaxis_bulbifera.htm|accessdate=18 March 2012}} It grows to between 15 and 60 cm high and has white to cream flowers. This flower is often found growing next to Geissorhiza radians.{{Cite web |title=Geissorhiza radians {{!}} PlantZAfrica |url=https://pza.sanbi.org/geissorhiza-radians |access-date=2023-12-12 |website=pza.sanbi.org}} It has branched stems and lanceolate leaves. It is one of the few species native to sandy, waterlogged soils.{{Cite web |title=Sparaxis {{!}} Pacific Bulb Society |url=https://www.pacificbulbsociety.org/pbswiki/index.php/Sparaxis |access-date=2023-12-12 |website=www.pacificbulbsociety.org}}

Sparaxis bulbifera is popular in ornamental gardening due to its attractive blooms and resilience. The plant's flowers are noted for their striking appearance and ability to thrive in a variety of soil conditions, making them a favorite among gardeners looking to add a touch of exotic beauty to their landscapes. In addition to its aesthetic appeal, Sparaxis bulbifera plays a role in local ecosystems, providing nectar for various pollinators, including bees and butterflies.