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Summer hyacinth

Galtonia candicans

gal-TOE-nee-ah KAN-dih-kanz

A native of South Africa, summer hyacinth sends up spikes of lovely white flowers in late summer amidst dark green, strap-like foliage, when many other perennials are done blooming. The tall spikes are fragrant and especially dramatic planted with darker foliage or flowers.

Noteworthy CharacteristicsFragrant, bell-shaped white flowers, tinged with green, and strap-like foliage make this plant welcome in the late summer garden.

CareFertile, well-drained soil that is reliably moist in spring and summer. Full sun. Overwinter in a cool greenhouse or mulch deeply in areas with harsh winters.

PropagationSow seed in containers in a cold frame as soon as ripe, keeping the seedlings frost-free for the first 2 years. Offsets can be removed in spring.

ProblemsInfrequent, but sometimes slugs and snails.

  • Genus : Galtonia
  • Zones : 10, 7, 8, 9
  • Plant Height : 3 to 6 feet
  • Plant Type : Bulbs
  • Characteristics : Fragrant Flowers
  • Light : Full Sun
  • Bloom Time : Late Summer, Summer
  • Moisture : Medium Moisture
  • Maintenance : Moderate
  • Growth Rate : Moderate
  • Plant Seasonal Interest : Summer Interest
  • Flower Color : White

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