Orlaya Grandiflora
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Orlaya grandiflora Seeds
If Ammi Majus is the wild hedgerow cousin, Orlaya grandiflora is the refined, elegant royalty. It produces flat-topped umbels of pure snow-white flowers, where the outer petals are much larger than the inner ones, creating a detailed, high-definition "lace doily" effect.
This is a must-have for any cut flower patch. It is shorter and sturdier than Ammi (growing to about 60cm), meaning it rarely needs staking. Its ferny green foliage and long-lasting blooms make it the ultimate "posh filler" for bouquets, adding a touch of luxury and lightness to any arrangement.
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🌿 Understanding the Plant
Orlaya grandiflora, also known as the White Lace Flower, is a Hardy Annual (H3/H4). It is tough enough to survive most UK winters as a small seedling, making it one of the most versatile plants for the cottage garden.
The Autumn Secret: While Orlaya can be sown in spring, the biggest and most floriferous plants are achieved through an Autumn Sow (September-October). Overwintering allows the plant to develop a deep, robust root system, resulting in earlier blooms and sturdier stems come spring.
Biodiversity Haven: Listed on the RHS Plants for Pollinators list, its broad, flat umbels provide an ideal landing platform for hoverflies and solitary bees, making it a functional and beautiful addition to any wildlife-friendly garden.
🌱 Growing Guide
Orlaya can be slightly slow to germinate, so patience and consistent conditions are key.
How to Sow:
Sow outdoors in September or March to May. Because Orlaya develops a deep taproot, it resents being moved; direct sowing is highly recommended. If sowing in modules, use deep containers or root trainers and transplant carefully. Cover the seeds lightly with compost—they typically take 14-21 days to appear.
Where to Plant:
They demand full sun and thrive in well-drained, light soil. Originating from the Mediterranean, they hate sitting in cold, heavy, waterlogged clay over winter. If your soil is heavy, add grit to ensure the drainage is sharp.
Ongoing Care:
Keep young plants weed-free while they establish. Once mature, Orlaya is fairly drought-tolerant. Deadhead spent blooms regularly to keep the white "lace" coming all summer long, or leave the spiky, decorative seed heads to dry for unique winter interest in the house.
📋 Plant Specifications
| Botanical Name | Orlaya grandiflora |
| Common Name | White Lace Flower / Minoan Lace |
| Plant Type | Hardy Annual |
| Hardiness | H3/H4 (Hardy Annual) |
| Light Requirements | Full Sun ☀️ |
| Height | 50cm - 60cm |
| Spread | 30cm |
| Spacing | Plant 30cm apart |
| Flowering Period | June to September |
| Perfect For | 👰 Bridal Posies 🐝 Hoverfly Magnet ✂️ High-End Cut Flowers 🏺 Large Patio Pots |
| Seeds per Packet | Approximately 25 large seeds |
🤝 Beautiful Garden Combinations
The pure, clean white of Orlaya act as a spotlight, making surrounding colours look more vibrant. Try these pairings from our range:
- ⚫ Cornflower 'Black Ball': The Monochrome Mix. The velvety deep maroon-black of the Cornflower looks incredibly sophisticated against the snowy white lace of Orlaya. This is a florist-favourite pairing for moody bouquets.
- 🍑 Cosmos 'Apricotta': The Romantic Pastel. The soft peach and apricot tones of 'Apricotta' blend seamlessly with creamy white Orlaya, creating a dreamy, soft-focus display in any sunny border.
📅 Sowing & Flowering Calendar
Sow in autumn for early spring royalty, or spring for mid-summer lace.
| Month | J | F | M | A | M | J | J | J | A | S | O | N | D |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sow Indoors | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ||||||||
| Flowering | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
✂️ Cut Flower Tip
Use the "shake test" for Orlaya! To check if a stem is ready for the vase, wiggle it gently. If the neck flops, it's too young. If the flower head stays stiff and upright, it's ready to harvest for a long-lasting display.
🏆 RHS Plants for Pollinators
Orlaya grandiflora is listed on the RHS Plants for Pollinators list. Its large, flat umbels act as a vital dining platform for hoverflies and solitary bees, supporting the delicate balance of your garden's ecosystem.
📖 Want more detailed growing advice?
View our Complete Growing Guide for Annuals →
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