Polianthes tuberosa The Pearl

Polianthes tuberosa 'The Peal' bears magnificent semi-double to double flowers. They are pink when in bud, opening to reveal a pearlescent white complexion and a particularly delicate and spicy fragrance. Its summer flowering is enchanting. Its requirements are simple and clear: it loves sunshine and heat. It should be grown in a pot to enjoy its beauty in summer, and brought indoors for winter protection.

Polianthes tuberosa is native to Mexico. They are tuberous perennials that prefer bright and warm environments, are sensitive to frost, and do not tolerate cold weather well. Few of us will be able to grow them in open ground and will have to dig them up to spend the winter in a dry place at a minimum of 10°C (50°F). Growing them in pots will facilitate their installation and allow them to be placed in the sun or in a conservatory. This way, their fragrance will be appreciated to its full value. It is mainly cultivated for the cosmetic and perfume industry. It is used in the composition of several well-known heady perfumes.

Its base consists of a rosette of lanceolate, long, and deciduous leaves. They resemble ribbons and can measure up to 50cm (20in) long and 1.5cm (1in) wide. A flower stem emerges from the centre. This stem can vary in size between 70cm (28in) and 1m (3ft). From July onwards (depending on the regions), it will bear a spike 15 to 20cm (6 to 8in) tall, composed of about ten flowers. These flowers gradually open from bottom to top and form several rows of waxy petals that curl backwards and form a beautiful star-shaped cup. Their powerful fragrance is present day and night, and lasts for some time if you cut the flowers and display them in a vase. The ivory-white blooms are naturally elegant and refined.

Polianthes tuberosa 'The Pearl' is a jewel to be carefully preserved in a conservatory. The luckiest gardeners will be able to grow it in open ground in a small bed or rockery near a patio to enjoy its exceptional beauty and fragrance.