Galtonia candicans - Summer Hyacinth

The Cape Hyacinth or Galtonia candicans, is a bulb native to South Africa, bearing elegant white flowers with a very subtle vanilla fragrance.

This Hyacinth forms a clump of long, strap-like 60 to 90 cm (24 to 35in) long, shiny grey-green leaves. In June and July, its 60 cm (24in) flower stem carries about thirty trailing white bells, tinged with green at the base, measuring approximately 5 cm (2in).

Galtonia candicans prefers acidic, light, fertile, deep and well-drained soil in a sunny spot, protected from strong winds. The height of the flowers depends on the soil type, with more acidic soil resulting in stems reaching up to 1.2 m (4ft) high. It is hardy and can remain in the ground, although it is a good idea to cover it with a layer of dead leaves in colder regions. After three years, the plants will form beautiful clumps with multiple flower stems, requiring minimal maintenance.

In flower beds, Cape Hyacinths pair perfectly with Agapanthus, Crocosmias, or Daylilies that bloom at the same time. Large clumps can create a beautiful effect on a lawn.