Tuberose: A Fragrant Beauty for Late Summer Gardens
In late summer, many gardeners are drawn to plant tuberose bulbs because of their showy, fragrant flowers. These plants, also known as Polyanthus lilies, are native to Mexico and were brought to Europe in the 1500s. They quickly gained popularity in Spain and are now commonly found in the United States, particularly in the Gulf areas of Texas and Florida.
Plant Info
Tuberose plants (Polianthes tuberosa) produce clusters of large, white blooms on stalks that can reach up to 4 feet tall. They prefer sunny spots with well-draining soil and thrive in hot afternoon sun. The plants grow from rhizomes, which are actually underground stems that store nutrients.
Planting Tuberose Bulbs
Plant tuberose bulbs in spring after all danger of frost has passed. Place the rhizomes 2 to 4 inches deep and 6 to 8 inches apart in well-draining soil. Water the bulbs regularly, especially before and during the blooming period in late summer.
Caring for Tuberose Flowers
To ensure the best show of blooms, enrich poor soil with compost and organic amendments to improve drainage and texture. The cultivar Mexican Single is known for its highly fragrant blooms, while ‘Pearl’ offers double blooms that can be as large as 2 inches across. ‘Marginata’ has variegated blooms.
Digging and Storing Tuberose Bulbs
After the blooms have faded and the foliage has turned yellow, it’s time to dig up the tuberose bulbs for winter protection in colder climates. In gardening zones 9 and 10, the bulbs can be left in the ground over winter. However, in zones 7 and 8, it’s recommended to plant tuberose in a sheltered microclimate, such as near a wall or building. In zones colder than 7, the bulbs should be dug up and stored indoors.
Store the rhizomes at temperatures between 70 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. Alternatively, they can be air dried for 7 to 10 days and then stored in a cool location at 50 degrees Fahrenheit. Experiment with different storage options to find what works best for you.
Varieties of Tuberose
There are several popular varieties of tuberose, each with its own unique characteristics:
- Mexican Single: Highly fragrant, with single blooms
- Pearl: Double blooms, up to 2 inches across
- Marginata: Variegated blooms
Troubleshooting Common Problems
- Yellowing leaves: This can be a sign of overwatering or poor drainage.
- Poor blooming: Tuberose plants need plenty of sunlight and warm temperatures to bloom well.
- Bulbs rotting: This can happen if the bulbs are planted too deeply or if the soil is too wet.
Tips for Success
- Plant tuberose bulbs in well-draining soil.
- Water the bulbs regularly, but avoid overwatering.
- Fertilize the plants monthly with a balanced fertilizer.
- Deadhead spent blooms to encourage new growth.
- Dig up the bulbs in fall and store them indoors in colder climates.
By following these tips, you can enjoy the beauty and fragrance of tuberose flowers in your garden for many years to come.
