Overview

Ornithogalum ponticum 'Sochi' is a columnar upright bulbs in the genus Ornithogalum, part of the Asparagaceae family, with deciduous foliage. It typically grows around 0.5-1 metres tall and 0.1-0.5 metres wide, reaching full size in around 1-2 years. Ornithogalum ponticum 'Sochi' grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H4. It is low maintenance. Suggested uses include architectural, cottage and informal garden, patio and container plants and mediterranean climate plants.

About

Ornithogalum ponticum 'Sochi' is a bulbous perennial that reaches a height of 75 cm. In early summer, it produces tall flower spikes adorned with clusters of star-shaped white blooms.

About the genus

Ornithogalum consists of bulb-forming perennials characterized by narrow, strap-like leaves that grow from the base. These plants produce racemes, which may be compact, bearing flowers that are star-shaped or cup-shaped, typically in white, yellow, or orange hues.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Ornithogalum

Sunlight
Full sun
Soil type
Chalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moisture
Well-drained
Aspect
South-facing, West-facing
Exposure
Sheltered
UK hardiness
H4

Plant details

Ornithogalum ponticum 'Sochi' size, habit and characteristics

Plant type
Bulbs
Habit
Columnar upright
Foliage
Deciduous
Height
0.5-1 metres
Spread
0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height
1-2 years
Suggested uses
Architectural, Cottage and informal garden, Patio and container plants, Mediterranean climate plants
Toxicity
Harmful 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

Pruning and caring for Ornithogalum ponticum 'Sochi'

Cultivation
Plant bulbs in autumn, 10cm deep in moderately fertile, well-drained soil in full sun
Pruning
No pruning required
Propagation
Propagate by sowing seed in containers in a cold frame in autumn or spring. Remove offsets when dormant
Pest resistance
Generally pest-free
Disease resistance
Generally disease-free

Frequently asked questions

How do I grow Ornithogalum ponticum 'Sochi'?

Plant bulbs in autumn, 10cm deep in moderately fertile, well-drained soil in full sun.

Where is the best place to plant Ornithogalum ponticum 'Sochi'?

Ornithogalum ponticum 'Sochi' prefers full sun. It suits sheltered positions.

What soil does Ornithogalum ponticum 'Sochi' need?

Ornithogalum ponticum 'Sochi' is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including chalk, loam and sand. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays well-drained.

How do I prune Ornithogalum ponticum 'Sochi'?

No pruning required.

How big does Ornithogalum ponticum 'Sochi' grow?

Ornithogalum ponticum 'Sochi' reaches a height of 0.5-1 metres and a spread of 0.1-0.5 metres. It takes around 1-2 years to reach full size.

Is Ornithogalum ponticum 'Sochi' hardy in the UK?

Ornithogalum ponticum 'Sochi' has a UK hardiness rating of H4.

How do I propagate Ornithogalum ponticum 'Sochi'?

Propagate by sowing seed in containers in a cold frame in autumn or spring. Remove offsets when dormant.

Is Ornithogalum ponticum 'Sochi' toxic?

Harmful 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.