Polianthes tuberosa are tender bulbs that produces spikes of intensely fragrant, waxy white flowers throughout summer, which make enthralling cut flowers. Polianthes flowers through June, July and August.
The semi-double, fragrant tuberose flowers of this relatively unknown bulb are carried above narrow, lance shapes leaves. As an added bonus, the flowers can be eaten cooked and are often added to soups or used to flavour soy sauces in oriental cuisine.
Polianthes tuberosa requires a minimum temperature of 15C (59F) so it is ideal for a heated greenhouse or conservatory. It can also be grown outdoors in containers or sheltered sunny borders, if it is lifted and stored frost-free over winter. Bulb size: 14/16. Height: 120cm (48″). Spread: 20cm (8″).
Plant tubers in containers at a depth of 10cm (4″) and grow them on until large enough to move outdoors when all risk of frost has passed. When growing tuberose in extremely mild areas, plant directly into moist, fertile, well drained soil in sheltered sunny borders.
Feed and water regularly throughout the growing season. Move containers of tuberose plants to a cool, frost-free position before the first frosts. Lift tubers from borders and store them in sand or peat in frost free conditions until ready to replant the following spring.
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