Orlaya Grandiflora Flower RHS Seeds

Orlaya grandiflora, commonly known as Grandiflora White Lace, is a beautiful, elegant annual with lacy, white flowers that resemble delicate, intricate lacework. The plant's airy, fern-like foliage and striking flower clusters make it a standout in gardens, borders, and wildflower meadows. With its soft, romantic appearance, Orlaya grandiflora is ideal for adding texture and a touch of refinement to any garden design.

 

The genus Orlaya is named after the French botanist Augustin Pyramus de Candolle, who first described the plant. Grandiflora refers to the large, showy flowers that bloom in dense, umbrella-like clusters, creating a stunning visual effect. The plant’s graceful, almost ethereal blooms are perfect for those seeking a timeless, cottage-garden look.

 

Awarded the RHS Award of Garden Merit (AGM), Orlaya grandiflora is praised for its ease of growth, reliability, and exceptional ornamental value. It is an excellent choice for filling gaps in borders, creating romantic, flower-filled spaces, or adding beauty to wildflower gardens. Its delicate flowers also make it a popular choice for use in floral arrangements, both fresh and dried.

 

This variety grows to a height of 60 - 75 cm, making it ideal for planting at the back or middle of borders. Its elegant flowers appear from early summer through to autumn, attracting pollinators such as bees and butterflies.

 

Seed Qty: Approx. 25

 

Sow: March - May (indoors) or April - June (outdoors)

Germination: 14 - 21 days

Soil: Well-drained, moderately fertile soil; neutral to slightly alkaline pH

Height: 60 - 75 cm

Flowering: June - September

Companion Plants: Nigella, Poppy, Cornflower

Avoid Planting With: Heavier, moisture-loving plants

 

Orlaya grandiflora is a low-maintenance and resilient plant, thriving in full sun or partial shade. It requires regular watering during dry periods but is generally tolerant of less fertile soils. Deadheading spent flowers will encourage the plant to continue blooming throughout the growing season, and it benefits from being planted in well-drained, nutrient-rich soil.

 

Sowing Instructions

Indoors: Sow seeds in trays or pots filled with moist, well-drained compost from March to May. Lightly press the seeds into the surface without covering, as they need light to germinate. Maintain a temperature of 18-20°C. Transplant seedlings into individual pots when large enough to handle, and harden off before planting outdoors after the last frost.

 

Outdoors: Sow directly into prepared soil from April to June. Scatter seeds thinly on the soil surface and gently press them down. Keep moist until germination occurs. Thin seedlings to a spacing of 20 - 30 cm for optimal growth.

 

With its elegant lace-like blooms and airy foliage, Orlaya grandiflora is a lovely addition to any garden. Whether used for filling borders, attracting pollinators, or cutting for fresh and dried arrangements, this graceful plant offers long-lasting beauty with minimal care.

 

RHS Seed Scheme Range