Ornithogalum oligophyllum

Synonyms

Ornithogalum balansae

Bulbs Alpine Rockery

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

Position

Full sun

Soil Types

Chalk, Loam, Sand

Max Height

0.1-0.5 metres

Max Spread

0-0.1 metre

Size

Time to Maturity
1–2 years
Max Spread
0-0.1 metre
Max Height
0.1-0.5 metres

Growing Conditions

Chalk Loam Sand
Moisture
Well–drained
pH
Acid or Alkaline or Neutral

Position

Full sun
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Sheltered
Hardiness
H4

Colour & Scent

Season Stem Flower Foliage Fruit
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Botanical Details

Family
Asparagaceae
Native to GB/Ireland
No
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Tufted
Potentially harmful
Harmful if eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling TOXIC to pets if eaten (dogs, cats, rabbits, rodents) - see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants for further information and useful contact numbers
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