Society Garlic 'Dark Star'

The pretty pink florets mass over the handsome, uniform foliage. The flowers are frequently visited by beneficial pollinators and will last pretty well in a vase too.

Tulbaghia is fast growing and pretty well maintenance free. They are dry and frost tolerant (to -5C) with great uniformity. From cottage to coastal or even herb gardens. In dry or boggy soils, these undemanding plants will bring plenty of rewards. A great choice for coastal gardens too and can help with erosion control in tough spots.

The leaves and flowers of Tulbaghia are edible, but go easy, they are quite peppery. Rubbing them on your skin is also supposed to deter insect bites, which we have just discovered, but not tested, will be giving it a go, keep in mind it does smell of garlic.

Plant into moderately fertile to humus rich soil, they are pretty well tolerant of most. Water to establish, around 4-6 weeks, then only if rainfall is low over the heat of summer. A bit of tomato fertiliser in spring will keep them blooming. If the foliage becomes untidy simply prune back to around 10cm and it will be back in no time.

Tulbaghia species were found outside S. Africa’s Western Cape, by the town of Tulbagh – named for Goevor Ryk Tulbagh (mid 18th century) who was a keen botanist. As well as Society Garlic they are commonly known as Social Garlic.