Species giant summer hyacinth
cluster of small, creamy-white, tubular flowers along green, slender stems

giant summer hyacinth

Ornithogalum candicans

Giant summer hyacinth (Ornithogalum candicans) is a striking bulbous plant, native to open woodlands and scrub in South Africa. In late spring and summer, it produces large umbels of white, star-like flowers on dark green stems. The foliage is typically stiff and upright, displaying a glossy, mid-green color. This eye-catching plant is easily grown in well-drained, humus-rich soils and full sun. Although it is drought-tolerant, it prefers regular waterings to keep it looking its best. Once established, its resilient nature and striking appearance make it an attractive addition to any garden.

Cycle:

Perennial

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Division,Seed Propagation,Offsets

Hardiness Zone:

6 - 10

Flowers:

Creamy white Flowers

Sun:

Full sun

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

Moderate

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Invasive:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Water giant summer hyacinths regularly to keep the soil lightly moist, but not soggy. Water deeply in the morning once per week, allowing the water to soak into the soil. In hot, dry weather periods, it may be necessary to water twice per week. Avoid splashing water on the foliage, as this can lead to fungal diseases.

sunlight

Giant summer hyacinths prefer full sun so they should be placed in an area which receives 5 to 8 hours of sunlight per day. For optimal growth, they should be planted in morning sunlight and then moved to a slightly shadier area in the afternoon to help the flowers from overheating and becoming damaged. Additionally, partial afternoon shade is also beneficial for preventing wilting during peak summer temperatures.

pruning

Giant summer hyacinth (Ornithogalum candicans) should be pruned regularly once flowering has finished to maintain the shape of the plant. Pruning should be done in late summer or early autumn. Start by removing any dead or diseased leaves and growth, then cut back the plant to the desired size. This will promote bushy growth with larger, more robust flowers. Pruning can be as simple as tidying up the current structure of the plant or more drastic if you want to reinvigorate it. Again, make your cuts in the late summer or early autumn.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

The giant summer hyacinth typically starts flowering in June.

Hardiness Map