Tulbaghia violacea

Society Garlic

These long-blooming perennials from South Africa are easy to grow. The star-shaped flowers grow in large, round clusters that appear intermittently throughout the spring and summer. The grassy foliage increases each year to form substantial clumps resembling dwarf Agapanthus. Use in mixed plantings with perennials and small shrubs, or in rock or dry gardens. Evergreen in mild climates. The leaves emit a strong, garlicky odor when damaged. Wear gloves to prune as the smell is hard to remove from hands. A lesser-known species, Tulbaghia fragrans, has wider leaves and sweetly scented flowers. Easy to start by division. Like full sun. Frost damage at 20º to 25º F.

Common Society Garlic has solid green leaves, but there are also lower-growing, variegated versions. Some use the strong-smelling leaves as a seasoning.

Attributes - Tulbaghia violacea

Plant Type: Perennial

Bloom Season: Mid Spring through Mid Fall

Flower Color: Purple

Foliage: Semi-Deciduous

Height: 1 ft. 6 in. to 2 ft.

Width: 1 ft. 2 in.

Sunlight: Full Sun, Partial Sun

Climate: Zones 9, 10, 11

Notes: Container Plants, Long Blooming, Low Maintenance, Showy Flowers.

Related Plants

Tulbaghia violacea 'Silver Lace'

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