Summer Hyacinth (Galtonia candicans): Fragrant White Spikes for Late Summer

Summer hyacinth (Galtonia candicans, syn. Hyacinthus candicans) sends up spikes of lovely fragrant white flowers tinged with green in late summer amidst dark green strap-like foliage, when many perennials are done blooming.

Culture & Propagation

Fertile, well-drained soil reliably moist in spring/summer. Full sun. Overwinter in cool greenhouse or mulch deeply in harsh winters. Sow seed in containers in cold frame as ripe, keep frost-free 2 years. Remove offsets in spring.

Problems

Infrequent, sometimes slugs and snails.

Quick Reference

• Height: 3–6 ft.
• Growth Pace: Moderate
• Light: Full sun only
• Moisture: Medium
• Maintenance: Moderate
• Bloom Time: Late summer
• Flower Color: White
• Attributes: Fragrant flowers
• Uses: Beds, borders, cut flowers, cottage gardens