Rajnigandha (Polianthes tuberosa), known worldwide as tuberose, is a bulbous perennial grown for its slender spikes of pure-white, star-shaped blooms that release a heady fragrance, especially in the evening. A staple of Indian flower farms, it is one of the country's most important commercial loose-flower and cut-flower crops.
Each clump sends up grassy basal leaves and flower spikes that can reach about a metre tall, carrying paired, waxy florets that open from the bottom upward. Single-flowered types are favoured for loose flowers and perfume, while double-flowered types are popular as long-lasting cut flowers.
It thrives in the warm climate of regions such as Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, West Bengal, Maharashtra and Andhra Pradesh, flowering through the warmer months and rewarding growers with repeat blooms from the same planted bulbs.
Specifications
| Family |
Asparagaceae |
| Native region |
Mexico |
| Mature height |
75-100 cm |
| Mature spread |
30-45 cm |
| Growth rate |
Moderate |
| Foliage |
Grassy, bright-green strap-like basal leaves |
| Flower colour |
White |
| Flower season |
Summer to autumn (about June-October in much of India) |
| Climate zone |
Tropical and subtropical |
Care guide
| Sunlight |
Full sun; at least 6 hours of direct light daily for strong spikes and good fragrance. |
| Watering |
Keep soil evenly moist during active growth; water 2-3 times a week and avoid waterlogging. Reduce after flowering. |
| Soil / mix |
Fertile, well-drained sandy loam rich in organic matter, pH about 6.5-7.5. |
| Temperature |
Grows best at 20-35 C; protect bulbs from frost and cold below about 10 C. |
| Humidity |
Tolerates moderate to high humidity typical of Indian summers and monsoon. |
| Fertilizer |
Mix compost or FYM at planting; feed with a balanced NPK every 3-4 weeks during growth, easing off near bloom. |
| Pruning |
Remove spent spikes and yellowing leaves; cut spikes when lower 2-3 florets open for the vase. |
| Repotting |
Lift and divide congested clumps every 2-3 years; replant offsets in fresh, enriched soil. |
| Propagation |
By bulbs and offsets (bulb division); planted typically in spring/early summer. |
| Pests & problems |
Watch for thrips, aphids, red spider mites and nematodes; Botrytis and stem/bulb rot in waterlogged soil. |
| Difficulty |
Easy |
Uses
<p>Rajnigandha is one of India's most valued fragrant flowers, grown both commercially and in home gardens.</p><ul><li>Loose flowers for garlands, gajra, floral decoration and temple offerings</li><li>Long-lasting cut flowers for bouquets and vases</li><li>Source of tuberose essential oil and attar used in perfumery</li><li>Borders, beds and large containers for an evening-scented garden</li></ul>
Growing tips
<p>Plant healthy bulbs in spring to early summer (Feb-May) so spikes mature through the warm season; stagger plantings for a longer flowering window.</p><p>Choose a sunny, well-drained spot and enrich the soil with compost or FYM before planting. During the monsoon, ensure good drainage to prevent bulb rot, and stake tall spikes if they lean. In cooler North Indian winters, lift and store bulbs in a dry, frost-free place.</p>
