Golden Weather Glass

Hypoxis hygrometrica

Physical Characteristics

Hypoxis hygrometrica is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.2 m (0ft 8in) by 0.1 m (0ft 4in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 9. It is in flower from May to July, and the seeds ripen from July to August. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. The plant is self-fertile. Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

Australia - New South Wales, Queensland, Tasmania and Victoria.

Habitats

Cultivated Beds; East Wall. By. West Wall. By.

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Root Edible Uses: Tuber - raw or cooked[144]. A starchy and earthy taste, with an irritant aftertaste[193]. It is probably inadvisable to eat the root raw due to the presence of calcium oxalate crystals, though it should be all right cooked.

Medicinal Uses

None known

Known Hazards

Plant contains calcium oxalate crystals and can cause mild irritation to the throat if eaten[144]. Thorough cooking destroys the toxin. People with a tendency to rheumatism, arthritis, gout, kidney stones and hyperacidity should take especial caution if including this plant in their diet[238].