About

A strong-growing rhizomatous perennial to 50cm in height, with grey-green basal leaves and perfumed pale purple flowers in large terminal umbels in late summer and early autumn.

About the genus

Tulbaghia are bulbous or rhizomatous perennials with linear, onion-scented leaves and umbels of small, star-shaped flowers with a small cup-like corona

Growing conditions

SunlightFull sun
Soil typeLoam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectEast-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH3

Plant details

Plant typeBulbs
HabitTufted
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesMediterranean climate plants, City and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden, Rock garden
Native toSouth Africa
FragranceFlower, Foliage

Care notes

CultivationGrows well in any moderately fertile, well-drained, loamy soil. Protect in all but the mildest areas over winter with a deep dry mulch or bring container grown plants into an unheated greenhouse
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by seed, sown when ripe, in containers in a cold frame or division in spring
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free