Overview
Galtonia candicans is a bulbous perennial in the genus Galtonia, part of the Q157167 family. It typically grows around 1–1.2 metres tall. Galtonia candicans grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates well-drained and fertile soils. Its UK hardiness is rated H4. Suggested uses include borders, containers and cut flowers. It is native to South Africa and Lesotho.
About
Galtonia candicans is a bulbous perennial that produces tall spikes of white, scented flowers in July to August. It grows from bulbs to 1–1.2 metres and originates from South Africa and Lesotho. Plants suit sunny or partly shaded positions and are often used in borders, containers and as cut flowers.
Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Ornithogalum candicans
About the genus
Galtonia is a genus of plants in the family Asparagaceae, subfamily Scilloideae. Native to Southern Africa, the genus is named after Sir Francis Galton. According to some authorities it has been subsumed into Ornithogalum as a subgenus, while others prefer to keep it as a separate genus.
Wikipedia contributors, "Galtonia", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Galtonia
In the garden
Galtonia candicans grows from a bulb to form upright stems around 1–1.2 metres tall bearing multiple white flower spikes in July to August; the blooms are scented and are traditionally used for cutting. Its origins lie in the moist grasslands of South Africa and Lesotho, which explains its preference for soil that remains moist without becoming waterlogged. Place Galtonia candicans in full sun or partial shade on fertile, well-drained soil that retains some moisture. The species is rated H4 (average) for hardiness, so it will survive typical UK winters in most sheltered to open gardens provided drainage is good. In containers choose a free-draining potting mix and avoid prolonged waterlogging. Tall stems make it a useful structural plant at the back of a border or in a mixed container where height is needed in midsummer. Because the flowers are scented and borne on long stems it performs well as a summer cut flower; stems can be picked for arrangements during the main July to August display.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Galtonia
- Sunlight
- full sun, partial shade
- Soil type
- well-drained, fertile
- Soil moisture
- moist
- UK hardiness
- H4
Plant details
Galtonia candicans size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- bulbous perennial
- Height
- 1–1.2 metres
- Suggested uses
- borders, containers, cut flowers
- Native to
- South Africa, Lesotho
- Fragrance
- Flower
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Galtonia candicans
- Cultivation
- Plant bulbs in spring in well-drained soil; protect from severe frost
- Pruning
- Remove spent flower stalks; cut back foliage after yellowing
- Propagation
- by seed, offsets
Frequently asked questions
How do I grow Galtonia candicans?
Plant bulbs in spring in well-drained soil; protect from severe frost.
Where is the best place to plant Galtonia candicans?
Galtonia candicans prefers full sun and partial shade.
What soil does Galtonia candicans need?
Galtonia candicans grows best in well-drained and fertile soil. Aim for soil that stays moist.
How do I prune Galtonia candicans?
Remove spent flower stalks; cut back foliage after yellowing.
How big does Galtonia candicans grow?
Galtonia candicans reaches a height of 1–1.2 metres.
Is Galtonia candicans hardy in the UK?
Galtonia candicans has an RHS hardiness rating of H4, meaning it is hardy through an average UK winter, tolerating -10 to -5°C.
How do I propagate Galtonia candicans?
By seed, offsets.
