Ornithogalum saundersiae
giant chincherinchee
A tender, bulbous perennial with erect, strap-shaped, dark green leaves to 60cm long. In winter or spring it produces stems to 1m tall, bearing white flowers with prominent black ovaries; the flowers are good for cutting
Size
Ultimate height
0.5–1 metresTime to ultimate height
1–2 yearsUltimate spread
0.1–0.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | White | Green | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | ||||
| Autumn | ||||
| Winter | White | Green |
Position
- Full sun
Aspect
East–facing or South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Sheltered Hardiness
H2Botanical details
- Family
- Asparagaceae
- Native to GB / Ireland
- No
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Columnar upright
- 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
- South Africa
How to grow
Cultivation
Under glass grow in paeat-free, loam-based potting compost in full light with shade from hot sun. When in growth, water freely; keep dry when dormant. Repot annually in spring
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
- Patio and container plants
- Sub-tropical
- Conservatory and greenhouse
- Cut flowers
Pruning
No pruning required
Pests
Generally pest-free
Diseases
Generally disease-free
Get involved
The Royal Horticultural Society is the UK’s leading gardening charity. We aim to enrich everyone’s life through plants, and make the UK a greener and more beautiful place.