Ornithogalum balansae

Ornithogalum balansae is a small bulbous plant that is still relatively rare in our gardens, with a charming and generous spring flowering. It is a myriad of white stars with a lovely butter-yellow centre that burst open in the sun from March onwards in the mildest regions. This hardy perennial can withstand the cold and stay in the ground in most regions. However, growing it in a pot allows you to enjoy it earlier.

If you want a bright and joyful spring, do not hesitate to plant Ornithogalum balansae at the front of your flowerbeds or in pots. It likes well-drained soils that do not retain excessive moisture and sunny or lightly shaded exposures. Withstanding temperatures below -5°C (23°F), it is suitable for most climates. If conditions are favourable, bulblets can appear at the periphery of the main bulb, increasing the population and multiplying the flowers. These flowers are grouped in loose corymbs carried by flexible stems, surrounded by long ribbon-like leaves, which droop as they unfold. The whole spreads about 10 cm (4in) wide and about 10 cm high (4in) but can take become larger in favourable climates. The flowers are composed of 6 white tepals with a green central tongue on the reverse. They open widely and reveal a small yellow heart bordered by stamens. These delicate translucent stars often appear in April-May, but growing them in a pot will make them bloom earlier.

Ornithogalum balansae will thrive alongside the small spring bulbs that you will find in our selection. Alongside Puschkinias, Crocuses, Chionodoxas, and Hyacinths, it will brighten the edge of pathways, sunny rockeries and balconies. It is a bulbous plant that deserves its place and brings delicacy to the end of winter.