Summer hyacinth (Ornithogalum candicans)
Care, watering, light and tips for Summer hyacinth on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Asparagaceae
- Difficulty: Easy to care for
- Watering: every 7 days
- Light: Indirect light
- Temperature: 10–35 °C
- Toxicity: Toxic to pets
About Summer hyacinth
Ornithogalum candicans, also known as Summer Hyacinth or South African Ornithogalum, is a perennial bulbous plant that produces tall, elegant spikes of drooping, bell-shaped white flowers in mid to late summer. Its fragrant and long-lasting blooms make it an excellent choice for sunny garden borders or as a cut flower in floral arrangements.
Native range
South Africa
Care tips
It thrives in full sun, requiring at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. Well-draining soil is crucial; waterlogging is fatal for its bulbs. Water regularly during the active growing season, but significantly reduce watering once the foliage starts to yellow after flowering. Avoid planting in heavy, clay soils that retain too much moisture.
How to save a dying Summer hyacinth
- Warning signs
- Yellow or brown, soft, drooping leaves; no flowering; soft or moldy bulb. Indicates overwatering or poor drainage.
- First aid
- Remove bulb, inspect roots. Cut soft or rotten parts. Repot in fresh, well-draining soil. Reduce watering.
- What kills it
- Excessive soil moisture and poor drainage quickly rot the bulb. Also extreme cold and frost.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if the bulb still has firm parts. Act quickly. Ensure good drainage and moderate watering.