About
Ornithogalum oligophyllum is a small bulbous perennial producing two channelled, mid-green leaves to 10 cm long. In spring it produces an erect flower stalk bearing an open cluster of starry, white flowers. A neat and rewarding bulb for a sunny, well-drained rock garden or raised bed.
About the genus
Ornithogalum are bulbous perennials with linear or strap-shaped basal leaves and racemes of star-shaped or cup-shaped, white, yellow or orange flowers. Suitable for sunny, well-drained borders and naturalising in grass.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun
Soil typeChalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH4
Plant details
Plant typeBulbs, Alpine Rockery
HabitTufted
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0-0.1 metre
Time to full height1-2 years
Suggested usesCottage and informal garden, Gravel garden, Patio and container plants, Rock garden
Native toBalkans to Iran
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