Overview

Pancratium illyricum is a bulbous perennial in the genus Pancratium, part of the Amaryllidaceae family. Pancratium illyricum grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates well-drained and sandy or rocky soil soils. Its UK hardiness is rated H4. Suggested uses include rock gardens, coastal gardens and borders. It is native to Corsica, Sardinia and Capraia Islands.

About

Pancratium illyricum is a bulbous perennial in the Amaryllidaceae that produces very fragrant, white summer flowers. Native to Corsica, Sardinia and the Capraia Islands, it naturally occupies sandy and rocky ground. It prefers full sun or partial shade in very free-draining soil and tolerates dry to moderate moisture. With an H4 rating for the UK, it suits exposed coastal sites and rock gardens.

Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Pancratium illyricum

In the garden

Pancratium illyricum is a Mediterranean bulbous perennial from Corsica, Sardinia and the Capraia Islands. It belongs to the Amaryllidaceae and is best appreciated for its scented white flowers that appear in mid to late summer (July to September in the UK). The bulbs are adapted to open, well-drained habitats and perform where soils remain relatively poor and free-draining. Plant in full sun or where light afternoon shade is available; avoid heavy, water-retentive soils. A sandy or rocky substrate that sheds excess moisture suits the bulbs because they prefer dry to moderate soil moisture rather than persistent damp. The species tolerates exposed, coastal conditions and carries an H4 hardiness rating, meaning it has average winter hardiness for the UK and will do well in many coastal and sheltered inland positions if the soil drains freely. Use Pancratium illyricum in rock gardens, coastal borders or at the front of gravelled beds where its scent can be appreciated. The fragrant summer blooms make it particularly effective where evening air concentrates the perfume, for example beside a path or seating area in a coastal border, rather than buried deep within dense planting.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Pancratium

Sunlight

full sun, partial shade

Soil type

well-drained, sandy or rocky soil

Soil moisture

dry to moderate

Exposure

exposed, coastal

UK hardiness

H4

Plant details

Pancratium illyricum size, habit and characteristics

Plant type

bulbous perennial

Suggested uses

rock gardens, coastal gardens, borders

Native to

Corsica, Sardinia, Capraia Islands

Fragrance

fragrant flowers

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Pancratium illyricum

Cultivation

Plant bulbs in well-drained soil in autumn; drought tolerant once established

Pruning

Remove spent flowers and yellowing leaves

Propagation

by seed or bulb offsets

Frequently asked questions