Overview
Eremurus olgae is a perennial in the genus Eremurus, part of the Asphodelaceae family. It typically grows around 2.0 m tall. Eremurus olgae grows best in full sun, and tolerates sandy and loamy soils. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. It is native to Central Asia.
About
Eremurus olgae is a perennial in the Asphodelaceae grown for its tall flowering stems, reaching about 2.0 m. Native to Central Asia, it flowers in the UK from May to July. It performs best in full sun in sandy or loamy soils that are well‑drained or moist but well‑drained. It carries a fully hardy rating (H7) and suits open, sunny sites.
About the genus
Eremurus is a genus of deciduous perennial flowers in the family Asphodelaceae. They are also known as the foxtail lilies or desert candles.
In the garden
Eremurus olgae is a herbaceous perennial from Central Asia and belongs to the Asphodelaceae. It produces very tall flowering stems that reach around 2.0 m and form the plant’s most obvious contribution to a sunny border; the flowering season in the UK runs from May to July. Choose a sunny, sheltered spot in soil that is sandy or loamy and drains freely; the species tolerates moisture so long as water does not stand around the crown. Planting where roots can remain dry over winter reduces the risk of rot. Hardiness is H7 (fully hardy), corresponding to USDA zones 5–9, so it withstands typical UK winter conditions once established. Use Eremurus olgae at the back of a herbaceous border, in a gravel or dryish perennial bed, or where its height can be a vertical foil to lower perennials and grasses. Allow space so its stems do not shade neighbours, and site it where the May–July display will be visible from paths or seating areas.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Eremurus
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Sandy, Loamy
- Soil moisture
- Well-drained, Moist but well-drained
- UK hardiness
- H7
Plant details
Eremurus olgae size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Perennial
- Height
- 2.0 m
- Native to
- Central Asia
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Eremurus olgae?
Eremurus olgae prefers full sun.
What soil does Eremurus olgae need?
Eremurus olgae grows best in sandy and loamy soil. Aim for soil that stays well-drained to moist but well-drained.
How big does Eremurus olgae grow?
Eremurus olgae reaches a height of 2.0 m.
Is Eremurus olgae hardy in the UK?
Eremurus olgae has an RHS hardiness rating of H7, meaning it is fully hardy throughout the UK, tolerating temperatures below -20°C.
From the Fenn Plants journal
- Notes on DaffodilsWhen to plant daffodil bulbs in the UK, how deep, how to naturalise them in grass, why daffodils stop flowering (“blindness”), and why you should never mix cut daffodils with other flowers.
- Keeping Your NerveHow to garden through a heatwave — the best time to water, why deep soaks beat daily sprinkles, caring for pots and vulnerable plants, and why you can let the lawn go brown.
- Made to LastHow to clean, store and protect garden pots and planters — the frost-proof vs frost-resistant difference, winter care for terracotta and ceramic, and how to reuse a broken pot.
More in the Eremurus genus
- Eremurus himalaicusHimalayan foxtail lily
- Eremurus robustusgiant desert candle
- Eremurus spectabilisFox Tail
- Eremurus stenophyllusnarrow-leaved foxtail lily
- Eremurus × 'Himrob'
- Eremurus × isabellinusFoxtail Lily
- Eremurus 'Highdown'Fox Tail
- Eremurus elwesii 'Albus'Fox Tail