Scilla is a genus of the bulbous lily-family, grown for their early-spring blooms. They are the most valuable member of the genus, and are said to be one of the ‘bluest’ blues in the spring garden. Very easy to grow in sun or shade, reaching only 4-6 inches tall.
Blooming time is early to mid spring with ½ inch wide, brilliant gentian-blue nodding bell-shaped flowers. The flowers are usually 3-5 per cluster with several stems to a bulb. Their narrow, grass-like leaves are borne at the base of the plant usually appearing with flowers.
Squill look great in your rock garden, woodland gardens and even planted under your deciduous or evergreen shrubs and trees. Their flower color and low maintenance also makes them an excellent choice for naturalizing with daffodils. The flowers show best when planted in large drifts, and are striking when massed if front of forsythia.
Bulbs should be planted in the fall, the same time you are planting the rest of your spring blooming bulbs. It is always a good practice to mix a little bonemeal and peat in with the soil when planting most bulbs. Also make note of planting locations, for future reference.
