Ornithogalum narbonense (we think)

Description

South African Ornithogalum – unknown species

This South African Ornithogalum was given to us as part of an un-named collection

Ornithogalum narbonense

Ornithogalum narbonense, commonly known as Narbonne star-of-Bethlehem, is a bulbous perennial producing tall, upright racemes of star-shaped white flowers, each petal marked with a fine green stripe on the reverse. This South African Ornithogalum was given to us as part of an un-named collection so we are not 100% it is named correctly. Height typically reaches 40-60cm, with a spread of around 10-15cm, giving it a graceful, architectural presence in the border.

Flowering occurs in late spring to early summer, often intoi autumn., when the blooms are held well above the narrow, strap-like basal foliage on sturdy stems, making it a striking choice for cutting gardens as well as mixed borders and naturalistic plantings.

Cultivation is easy: plant bulbs in autumn, 10cm deep, in full sun and free-draining soil. It tolerates poor, dry conditions once established and is well suited to gravel gardens or naturalising in rough grass. Generally hardy in the UK, though it benefits from a sheltered spot in colder regions.

We haven’t tried it for hardiness so advise caution.