Large-flower orlaya (Orlaya grandiflora, Gen. Pl. Umbell.: 58 (1814))

Family: Apiaceae

Author: (L.) Hoffm.

Bibliography: Gen. Pl. Umbell.: 58 (1814)

Year: 1814

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Orlaya

Vegetable: False

Observations: Europe to N. Türkiye and W. Transcaucasus

Description

The Large-flower Orlaya, scientifically known as Orlaya grandiflora, is a strikingly beautiful species that belongs to the Apiaceae family. This annual herbaceous plant is admired for its stunning and delicate flowers which can add a touch of elegance to any garden landscape.

Native to a broad stretch extending from Europe to Northern Turkey and Western Transcaucasus, Orlaya grandiflora thrives in well-drained soils and sunny locations. The plant typically reaches a height of 30 to 60 centimeters, characterized by its finely cut, fern-like foliage which creates a lovely backdrop for the bloom.

The most captivating feature of Orlaya grandiflora is undoubtedly its large, intricate flowers. Each bloom forms an umbel shape, comprising several smaller florets arranged in a flat-topped or slightly rounded cluster. The outer florets are usually larger and more pronounced, giving the flower head a lacy and ornate appearance reminiscent of fine embroidery, hence its charm and allure in ornamental gardening.

These flowers are white, often with a subtle hint of creaminess, offering a striking contrast to the green foliage. The flowering period extends from late spring to early summer, during which the Large-flower Orlaya showcases its floral splendor and attracts various pollinators including bees and butterflies.

The species was first described in 1814 in the Gen. Pl. Umbell by L. Hoffm., underlining its historical botanical significance. Despite its delicate look, Orlaya grandiflora is relatively easy to grow and maintain, making it a popular choice for both amateur and experienced gardeners. It can be sown directly into the garden after the last frost, where it will gracefully establish itself and adorn the space with its lavish blooms.

In addition to its visual appeal, Orlaya grandiflora holds ecological importance. By attracting pollinators, it plays a role in supporting biodiversity in garden ecosystems. Moreover, its adaptability to different soil types and climates within its native range makes it a resilient and valuable addition to various garden designs, from cottage gardens to wildflower meadows.

In summary, Orlaya grandiflora, or Large-flower Orlaya, is a magnificent plant that combines aesthetic beauty with ecological benefits. Its historical roots and widespread native range further underscore its importance in the botanical world, making it a cherished favorite among plant enthusiasts and gardeners alike.

Common Names

Deu: großblütiger breitsame, strahlen-breitsame
Eng: white lace flower, large-flower orlaya, large-flowered orlaya
Swe: blomsterkörvel
Nld: straalscherm
En: Large-flower orlaya, White lace flower, Large-flowered Orlaya
Ar: أورلايا كبيرة الأزهار
Bg: Едроцветно срамливче
Ca: Cospí de flor gran
Cs: Paprska velkokvětá
Nl: Straalscherm
Fr: Caucalis à grandes fleurs, Orlaya à grandes fleurs
De: Strahlen-Breitsame, Großblütiger Breitsame
He: אחיגזר
Hu: Nagyvirágú laputurbolya
It: Lappola bianca
Sv: Blomsterkörvel

Synonyms

• Orlaya grandiflora subvar. pusilla (Coss. & Germ.)
• Orlaya media (Calest.)
• Orlaya grandiflora var. media (Halácsy)
• Orlaya grandiflora var. pusilla ((Coss. & Germ.) Rouy & E.G.Camus)

Distribution

• Albania (native)
• Austria (native)
• Belgium (native)
• Bulgaria (native)
• Czechoslovakia (native)
• East Aegean Is. (native)
• France (native)
• Germany (native)
• Greece (native)
• Hungary (native)
• Italy (native)
• Kriti (native)
• Krym (native)
• Romania (native)
• Spain (native)
• Switzerland (native)
• Transcaucasus (native)
• Turkey (native)
• Turkey-in-Europe (native)
• Yugoslavia (native)
• Algeria (introduced)
• Netherlands (introduced)
• Uzbekistan (introduced)

Additional Images

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

Flower

Taken May 20, 2021 by Emanuele Santarelli (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 19, 2018 by François André (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jun 4, 2018 by Marianne Aglave (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 27, 2017 by Françoise Boulanger (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 24, 2017 by tinavichycanirando81 (cc-by-sa)

Leaf

Taken May 29, 2021 by Dany (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 28, 2006 by Tela Botanica − Liliane Roubaudi (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 28, 2006 by Tela Botanica − Liliane Roubaudi (cc-by-sa)

Taken Apr 21, 2022 by Richard Thomas (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 20, 2021 by Emanuele Santarelli (cc-by-sa)

Habit

Taken Jun 12, 2022 by Marco Monari (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 20, 1990 by Tela Botanica − Liliane Roubaudi (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 28, 2006 by Tela Botanica − Liliane Roubaudi (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jun 14, 2020 by Christine (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 12, 2020 by etienne copeaux (cc-by-sa)

Fruit

Taken Jun 11, 2012 by Tela Botanica − Marie Therese GOUPIL (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 31, 2017 by Yoan MARTIN (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 24, 2021 by Michael Osthus (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 28, 2006 by Tela Botanica − Liliane Roubaudi (cc-by-sa)

Taken Mar 28, 2002 by Tela Botanica − Liliane ROUBAUDI (cc-by-sa)

Other

Taken Jul 15, 2018 by Tela Botanica − LINDA Lopez (cc-by-sa)

Taken Aug 15, 2012 by Photoflora – Benoit BOCK (©)

Taken Jun 30, 1849 by Tela Botanica − Herbier PONTARLIER-MARICHAL (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jun 11, 2012 by Tela Botanica − Marie Therese GOUPIL (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 30, 2019 by srilun orlus (cc-by-sa)

Bark

Taken May 23, 2021 by Leny Mercier (cc-by-sa)

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/3638282)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:845513-1)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Orlaya grandiflora (L.) Hoffm.)

Specifications

Growth

Ph maximum: 9.0

Ph minimum: 8.0

Light: 7

Atmospheric humidity: 4

Bloom months: [‘jun’, ‘jul’, ‘aug’, ‘sep’]

Soil nutriments: 5