Polianthes Tuberose 'The Pearl'

Polianthes tuberosa ‘The Pearl’ is a luxuriously fragrant and elegant flowering plant, known for its creamy-white, double-petaled blooms that exude an intoxicating, sweet perfume. This timeless beauty has been cherished for centuries for its romantic appearance and heady fragrance, making it a prized addition to gardens, floral arrangements, and even perfumes. Whether planted in borders, containers, or used as a cut flower, ‘The Pearl’ captivates with its ethereal charm and sensory allure.

Zones 7 - 11

Flower Characteristics

• Bloom Size: Each individual flower measures about 1 to 2 inches across, with multiple blooms arranged along a tall, graceful flower spike.
• Petal Structure and Color: ‘The Pearl’ features luxurious, fully double blooms, with layers of creamy-white petals that give it a fuller, more ruffled appearance than the single-flowered tuberose varieties.
• Flower Form: The blossoms are arranged in a vertical spike, creating a tall, elegant silhouette that adds height and drama to the landscape.
• Fragrance: The scent is rich, heady, and sweetly floral, with notes of jasmine, honey, and warm spices, intensifying in the evening.

Foliage and Growth

• Plant Height: Typically grows to two to three feet tall, with its flower spikes adding extra height.
• Foliage: Long, slender, strap-like leaves emerge from the base of the plant, forming a lush, green clump that contrasts beautifully with the pristine white flowers.
• Stem Strength: The tall spikes are sturdy but may benefit from staking in windy conditions to keep them upright.

Blooming Season and Growing Conditions

• Bloom Time: Blooms in mid-to-late summer and continues into early fall, filling the garden with its enchanting fragrance.
• Sunlight Requirements: Thrives in full sun to partial shade, but at least six hours of sunlight daily ensures the best flowering.
• Soil and Watering: Prefers rich, well-draining soil and requires regular, deep watering to support healthy growth and prolonged blooms. Avoid waterlogging to prevent root rot.
• Cold Hardiness: Hardy in USDA zones eight through eleven. In colder regions, the bulbs should be lifted and stored indoors for replanting in spring.

Garden and Floral Uses

• Cut Flowers: A florist’s favorite, ‘The Pearl’ is highly sought after for bouquets and garlands, thanks to its long-lasting blooms and mesmerizing scent.
• Pollinator Attraction: Bees, butterflies, and even nighttime pollinators like moths are drawn to its sweet fragrance.
• Landscaping: Ideal for cottage gardens, tropical-style plantings, and moon gardens, where its white blooms glow beautifully under the moonlight. It also thrives in containers, along pathways, or near seating areas, where its scent can be fully enjoyed.

Why Choose Polianthes Tuberosa ‘The Pearl’?

Polianthes tuberosa ‘The Pearl’ is a garden treasure, offering romantic, creamy-white blooms and a fragrance that lingers in the air like a floral dream. Whether used to create a scented retreat, a stunning floral display, or a touch of classic elegance, this plant brings beauty, nostalgia, and sensory delight to any space.