Family: Hyacinthaceae

There are around 80 species of bulbous plants from Africa, Europe and Asia in this genus. They have slender leaves and attractive, star-shaped, fragrant flowers in white or silvery white, mainly in spring. Some species tolerate very cold conditions, while others need warm growing areas.

Species

O. arabicum, zone 9, is a tender species, to 60 cm (24 in), which can be grown in cooler districts, provided it is protected from frost. The white flowers have black centers.

O. balansae, zone 6, from Asia, grows to 5 cm (2 in) high, with white flowers, striped in green.

O. nutans, zone 6, from southern Europe, is a hardy perennial, to 50 cm (20 in), with silvery flowers, lightly marked with green.

O. pyre­naicum, zone 6, originally from southern Europe, grows to 90 cm (36 in) and produces yellow spring flowers, tinted with green.

O. thyrsoides, chincherinchee, zone 9, a tender species native to South Africa, is popular as it provides good flowers for cutting. The sprays of beautiful, pure white flowers with showy, yellow stamens are borne on long stems.

Cultivation

These plants do well in most condi­tions and soils, in either sun or partial shade. The more tender species can be easily grown in mild conditions, but need a greenhouse or glassed-in verandah in cold, frosty climates. Propagate from seed or by division of offsets.

Climate

There are species suited to various cli­matic zones, some being tender, others hardy.