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Ornithogalum oligophyllum

A bulbous perennial producing two, channelled, mid-green leaves to 10cm long. In spring it produces an erect flowerstalk bearing an open cluster of starry, white flowers

Synonyms
Ornithogalum balansae
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Size
Ultimate height
0.1–0.5 metres
Time to ultimate height
1–2 years
Ultimate spread
0–0.1 metre
Growing conditions
Chalk
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Well–drained
pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring White Green
Summer
Autumn
Winter
Position
  • Full sun
Aspect

South–facing or West–facing

Exposure
Sheltered
Hardiness
H4
Botanical details
Family
Asparagaceae
Native to the UK
No
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Tufted
Potentially harmful
Harmful if eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling
Genus

Ornithogalum are bulbous perennials with linear or strap-shaped basal leaves and racemes, sometimes contracted, of star-shaped or cup-shaped, white, yellow or orange flowers

Name status

Correct

Plant range
Balkans to Iran

How to grow

Cultivation

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

Propagation

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

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Gravel garden
  • Patio and container plants
  • Rock garden
  • Low Maintenance
  • Underplanting of roses and shrubs
Pruning

No pruning required

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

Generally disease-free

Get involved

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