About
Ornithogalum saundersiae, the giant chincherinchee, is a tender, bulbous perennial with erect, strap-shaped, dark-green leaves to 60 cm long. In winter or spring, stems to 1 m tall bear dense heads of white flowers with prominent black ovaries � long-lasting as cut flowers. A striking and elegant bulb for a frost-free conservatory or warm, sheltered border.
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 typeLoam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectEast-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH2
Plant details
Plant typeBulbs, Conservatory Greenhouse
HabitColumnar upright
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.5-1 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height1-2 years
Suggested usesPatio and container plants, Sub-tropical
Native toSouth Africa
ToxicityHarmful if eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling 11953,ornithogalum-sephtonii,Ornithogalum sephtonii,,Ornithogalum sephtonii is a bulbous perennial producing the characteristic strap-shaped leaves and star-shaped flowers of the genus. A reliable and ornamental bulb for a sunny
Care notes
CultivationUnder glass grow in paeat-free, loam-based potting compost in full light with shade from hot sun. When in growth, water freely; keep dry when dormant. Repot annually in spring
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