Tulbaghia leucantha

Description

Tulbaghia leucantha AGM

A refined and elegant member of the society garlic family, Tulbaghia leucantha has earned its AGM (Award of Garden Merit) through its outstanding garden performance. Rising to a height of 45-60 cm, this clump-forming perennial creates an upright, architectural presence in borders and containers. The slender, grass-like foliage maintains an attractive grey-green colour throughout the growing season, forming neat clumps that add structure even when not in flower.

From midsummer through to autumn, graceful stems emerge carrying umbels of distinctive cream flowers with orangey-bronze centres. These delicate blooms appear in succession, each flower displaying a subtle two-tone effect that adds depth and interest to the overall display. Unlike some of its relatives, this species has only a mild garlic scent when the leaves are crushed.

Best suited to well-draining soil in full sun, Tulbaghia leucantha proves particularly valuable in Mediterranean-style gardens and gravel plantings. Its drought-tolerant nature, once established, makes it an excellent choice for low-maintenance schemes and contemporary borders.