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Also known as the Summer Hyacinth, Galtonia candicans is an elegant, statuesque bulb that produces tall spires of drooping, white bell-shaped flowers in late summer. Originally from the Drakensberg, this hardy and graceful plant adds vertical drama to borders, beds, and large containers. A true summer stunner with a gentle fragrance and strong garden presence!
Climate:
Native to South Africa's summer rainfall zones—loves warm, temperate regions.
Ideal for Free State, Gauteng, Eastern Cape, KZN midlands, and Western Cape (with summer watering).
Can handle light frost and returns reliably each season.
Sunlight:
Grows best in full sun (6+ hours).
Will tolerate light shade, but with fewer blooms.
Soil Requirements:
Prefers well-drained, fertile soil enriched with compost.
Avoid heavy clay—amend with sand and organic matter for drainage.
pH: 6.0—7.0 (neutral to slightly acidic).
Best Planting Time:
Plant in spring: August to October.
Flowers from January to March, often into early April.
Depth & Spacing:
Plant bulbs 10—15 cm deep, 20 cm apart.
Space generously for airflow and to allow dramatic flower spikes to shine.
Container Growing:
Ideal for deep containers (30+ cm).
Use a gritty, rich potting mix with excellent drainage.
Watering:
Keep soil consistently moist during the active growing season (Oct—March).
Water 2—3 times a week, especially in hot weather.
Stop watering once foliage dies back in autumn (April).
Fertilizing:
Add compost or bulb food at planting.
Feed every 2—3 weeks with a balanced liquid fertilizer during growth and flowering.
Mulching:
Apply a 5 cm mulch layer (straw, bark, compost) to conserve moisture.
Keep mulch clear of the bulb crown to avoid rot.
Bloom Time:
Blooms in late summer to early autumn (January—March).
Produces 1—1.2 m tall spikes of white, nodding bell-shaped flowers with a subtle, sweet fragrance.
After Flowering Care:
Deadhead spent blooms to prevent seed formation and tidy the plant.
Allow leaves to die back naturally to nourish the bulb.
Cut back dry foliage in late autumn.
Lifting & Storing Bulbs (Optional):
In wet or frost-prone regions, lift bulbs after dormancy (April—May), dry them, and store in a cool, dry place.
In milder areas with good drainage, bulbs can be left in the ground.
Support:
Tall flower spikes (up to 1.2 m) may need staking in windy areas.
Plant in sheltered spots or use discreet bamboo stakes.
Common Pests:
Generally pest-free, but snails or aphids may occasionally appear.
Remove manually or treat with neem oil/insecticidal soap if necessary.
Disease Issues:
Bulb rot is the main concern—avoid overwatering and ensure excellent drainage.
By Bulbs:
Bulbs will multiply over time, forming small offsets.
Divide clumps in late autumn or early spring every 3—4 years.
By Seed (Advanced):
Can be grown from seed, but takes several years to flower.
Perfect for pairing with Agapanthus, Kniphofia, Crinum, Crocosmia, and ornamental grasses. Adds height and elegance to mixed borders, cottage gardens, and wildflower-style plantings.
Galtonia candicans is a striking, tall-blooming bulb that brings an architectural elegance to the summer garden. Hardy, fragrant, and easy to grow, it rewards with stately white flowers and bold vertical structure—ideal for gardeners seeking something both unusual and effortlessly beautiful.
