Rhodohypoxis baurii ‘Mars‘

Rhodohypoxis baurii ‘Mars’ is a cheerful little gem that gives months of colour from a compact, grassy clump. From late spring through summer it produces masses of deep pink, starry flowers held just above the foliage, making it perfect for pots, troughs, alpine displays, rockeries and gravel gardens. It’s ideal if you want a plant that’s easy to enjoy up close—on a patio table, by the front door, or tucked into the sunny edge of a border.

This is a small tuberous/corm-forming perennial that dies back over winter and returns in spring. The secret to success is simple: sun, sharp drainage, and protection from winter wet (it often performs best in containers for this reason).

Planting Instructions

When to Plant:

Plant in spring once the risk of hard frost has passed, or in early autumn in milder areas. Avoid planting when the ground is frozen or waterlogged.

Where to Plant:
Choose a sunny position with very well-drained, gritty soil. Rhodohypoxis is ideal for pots and troughs, rockeries and gravel gardens. It dislikes winter wet, so container growing is often the easiest option.

How to Plant:

• Depth: Plant tubers about 5 cm (2 inches) deep.
• Spacing: Space about 5–10 cm apart (closer in pots for a fuller look).
• Soil Prep: Use a gritty, free-draining mix (add horticultural grit to compost or garden soil) so water drains freely.

Watering:
Water well after planting. During growth and flowering, keep the compost evenly moist (not soggy). Once it finishes flowering and starts to die back, reduce watering.

Aftercare Tips:

• Deadhead spent flowers to keep the display going.
• In wetter areas, keep plants in pots and protect from winter rain — store somewhere cool, dry and frost-free if needed.
• In spring, resume watering as new shoots appear.

Top Tip:
For reliable results, grow Rhodohypoxis ‘Mars’ in a pot and plunge the pot into the border for summer, then lift it for winter protection. This keeps the tubers safe from cold, wet soil.

Plant Details

Flowering Period:
May – September (often longest in pots with regular deadheading)

Height:
10–15cm

Position:
Full sun

Hardy Perennial (best protected from winter wet)