About
A bulbous perennial with strap-shaped leaves to 20cm long. In late spring it produces an erect spike to 1m tall, bearing a conical arangement of aromatic, star-shaped white flowers to 4cm across; the flowers are good for cutting.
About the genus
Ornithogalum are bulbous perennials with linear or strap-shaped basal leaves and racemes, sometimes contracted, of star-shaped or cup-shaped, white, yellow or orange flowers
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun
Soil typeChalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectEast-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH4
Plant details
Plant typeBulbs
HabitColumnar upright
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.5-1 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height1-2 years
Suggested usesArchitectural, City and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden, Patio and container plants, Wildlife gardens
Native toCaucasus
FragranceFlower
ToxicityHarmful if eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling TOXIC to pets if eaten (dogs, cats, rabbits, rodents) - see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants for further information and useful contact numbers
Care notes
CultivationPlant bulbs in autumn, 10cm deep in moderately fertile, well-drained soil in full sun
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by sowing seed in containers in a cold frame in autumn or spring. Remove offsets when dormant
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free