With very attractive flowers in summer, Galtonia are known as the summer hyacinth. Only two Galtonia species are widely available for sale, although a number of species can be found at specialist nurseries.
A fragrant bulb that are native to South Africa, Galtonia are a summer flowering bulb. The species include desirable varieties such as : Galtonia candicans, princeps, moonbeam and viridiflora.
All species are fragrant and all well in a sunny position. Try growing these bulbs in a large pot or container for an outstanding display.
Galtonia Care
The popular, G. viridiflora (Green Summer Hyacinth) and G. candicans (Summer Hyacinth) both like a sunny position a well drained soil enriched with compost and room to spread, Galtonia resent being moved.
- Well drained soil in good sun.
- Choose a position that does not receive heavy frosts.
- Plant bulbs 8cm deep, they may pull themselves deeper over time often up to 12cm deep. They are best spaced at 15 cm apart
- Water in well with a liquid seaweed fertilizer.
- Maintain moisture through spring and summer until the foliage begins to die back. Hold back on water after this.
- Use a little general purpose slow release fertiliser in early spring, of simply top dress in late winter with some well rotted compost and aged cow manure.
- Fertilise again after flowering while the foliage is still green.
Leave the bulbs undisturbed for 4 – 5 years and they will flower well. You will need to divide them after 5 years to prevent overcrowding, earlier if they stop flowering.
Varieties
As a cut flower G. candicans make a spectacular display, 1 to 1 & 1/2 metre tall with flowers that will last up to week. Galtonia princeps is a shorter growing variety to 30cm high.
The best time to Buy and plant Galtonia Bulbs is from Autumn to Winter.
Galtonia bulbs are available for sale from the following nurseries
'Sylvan Vale' 375 Olinda Creek Rd, Kalorama, VIC.3766
Including a large range of Rare and unusual bulbs, corms and perennials
www.tonkinsbulbs.com.au
357 Monbulk Road SILVAN VIC 3795
Guaranteed "garden worthy" bulbs, plants and perennials. Visit the website to browse our large range of daffodils or request the latest free catalogue.
www.tesselaar.net.au