PlantFiles: Huilmo
Olsynium junceum

The natural habitat of O. junceum is on sunny, rocky slopes at altitudes that range from 1000 to 2600m above sea level. These pretty herbaceous perennial Iridaceae develop a rhizome and can bloom the first year grown from seeds, but will display their best from the second year on. The back of the white petals has magenta or purple stripes Lots of light and good drainage are a must. Deadhead the flowers and only keep the seed pods you will require for further propagation of your Olsyniums. This will prevent the rhizome to age too soon.

Propagation from seeds: during autumn, in a mix of equal parts of compost, regular garden soil and sharp river sand. Cover this mix with a layer of sand, distribute the seeds and spread some more sand over them to barely cover the seeds. Place your sowing pan in a cold frame or cold greenhouse if you have heavy rain in your area. If you have snow, place the sowing pan outdoors and let nature do its work. The seedlings can be transplanted once they are 5cm (2”) tall. Do not over water!

Olsyniums are great rock garden plants, as well as adequate for the front of a border or to be grown in pots and containers.