Crinum x powellii album

Crinum x powellii 'Album' is a variety that stands out with its white flowers. It is a semi-evergreen perennial that survives harsh winters in the form of a large bulb about 15cm (6in) in diameter, protruding from the ground. It produces an imposing clump measuring 0.8 to 1m (3ft) in height, composed of large, thick, ribbon-like, and arching bright green leaves which, along with its umbels of large, wide-open, fragrant white trumpets, give it an exotic appearance that is particularly suited to warm and coastal gardens. With deep roots, plant it in rich, deep, and well-drained soil, preferably in the sun. Not demanding, it just needs to be mulched to keep its base moist in summer and to keep it warm in winter.

Crinum x powellii 'Album' is a bulbous perennial belonging to the Amaryllidaceae family, like amaryllis and clivias. It is a hybrid between two South African species: C. bulbispermum and C. moorei. Unlike its parents, it is a fairly hardy plant, tolerating temperatures down to -10°C (14°F). It can be easily grown in mild climates or in pots to be overwintered. Like many bulbs, it does not tolerate waterlogged soils in winter, which can cause it to rot. It likes rich soils, even clayey ones, as long as they are well-drained. It flowers better in the sun but does not require direct exposure. In less favourable regions, plant it facing south, against a wall. It tolerates temporary droughts quite well but prefers some moisture to support its summer flowering.

Crinum powellii 'Album' has a large bulb, up to 15cm (6in) in diameter and weighing up to 1.5kg! It bears a clump measuring 0.8 to 1m (3ft) in height with large, thick, fleshy, ribbon-like, and arching leaves. They are a shiny bright green, whorled, and very sheathing at their base. Depending on the severity of the climate, its leaves either remain from year to year or wither and dry up in early autumn. It is a fast-growing plant that, once established, will produce strong, rigid stems from July to September, each carrying 10 trumpet-shaped flowers, 13cm (5in) long and in diameter, with a scent of vanilla and orange. The flower consists of 6 large petals and bears long protruding stamens. Each plant produces 2 to 3 flower stems. The blooms are suitable as cut flowers.

It is a majestic perennial, useful for creating sumptuous and blooming masses around a pond or in a bed with oleanders in a mild climate garden. It can also be easily grown in a fairly large pot that can be brought indoors to protect it from winter frosts. Take the opportunity to plant it near a path or along a patio to fully enjoy its sweet fragrance.