Galtonia viridiflora, often called the green-flowered galtonia, is an unusual bulbous perennial valued for its tall stems and soft green bell-shaped flowers.

The arching flower stems carry graceful racemes of pale green blooms in late summer, bringing subtle colour and height to sunny garden borders.

• Height: up to 100cm
• Spread: 30–40cm
• Flower colour: pale green
• Flowering time: late summer
• Position: full sun or light shade
• Soil: fertile, well-drained soil

About Galtonia viridiflora

Galtonia viridiflora grows from bulbs and forms clumps of narrow strap-shaped foliage.

In late summer, tall arching stems emerge carrying clusters of softly coloured bell-shaped flowers. The pale green tones create a subtle display that blends easily with many planting schemes.

The flowers hang gently from the stems and move lightly in the breeze, adding movement to garden borders.

This species is less common than the white-flowered Galtonia candicans, making it a good choice for gardeners seeking unusual bulbs.

Synonyms include:

• Galtonia candicans 'Viridiflora'
• Ornithogalum viridiflorum

Benefits for UK Wildlife

Galtonia viridiflora contributes to pollinator-friendly planting.

• Flowers can attract visiting insects
• Provides nectar during late summer
• Adds diversity to wildlife-friendly borders

Plant with other late-season flowering plants to extend nectar sources for pollinators.

Where to Grow Green-flowered Galtonia

• Sunny garden borders
• Mixed perennial beds
• Cottage garden planting
• Large patio containers
• Wildlife-friendly gardens

The tall stems look particularly effective when planted in groups.

Planting Tips

• Plant bulbs in spring.
• Choose a sunny or lightly shaded location.
• Plant bulbs about 10–15cm deep.
• Space bulbs around 25–30cm apart.
• Use fertile soil with good drainage.
• Water during dry periods while plants establish.

Leave bulbs in place where possible so clumps can develop and increase in size.

Why Grow Galtonia viridiflora

• Rare pale green bell-shaped flowers
• Tall elegant stems for late summer interest
• Unusual colour for garden borders
• Suitable for borders and containers
• Easy to grow perennial bulb

If you want something a little different in the late summer garden, Galtonia viridiflora offers elegant green flowers and graceful height in sunny planting schemes.