Another small genus, Puschkinia has only two species in the genus. These are a tough little perennial bulb from Russia. Spring flowering they may be a little small in size, however when planted in a group they do make an impact when in flower.
A few years ago these were virtually unknown, however the grow well in light shade and deserve a little more attention. Also know as ‘Russian Snowdrops’ they flower at around the same time as Galanthus.
Puschkinia libanotica and Puschkinia scilloides are both known as striped squill and are a popular spring flowering bulb. Low growing to around 10 cm in height they do need to be planted near the the front of the border to be seem. Best planted in a small clump and left to multiply for a few years. They also grow well in containers.
These are a generally hardy group bulbs that do well in full sun to part shade. Generally not widely know they are easy and provide some colour in spring.
One known variation is sometimes available and this is P. libanotica ‘alba’, a white flowering species.
Purchase Puschkinia in Autumn for a display in spring.
Care
Puschkinia are a hardy bulb suitable for pots, the rock garden or planted as a clump in the border or wherever a space occurs.
Growing to 10cm Puschkinia Scilliodes is spring flowering with dainty white to light blue flowers. Sometimes referred to as ‘striped squill’ or ‘Lebanese squill’.
Pushkinia are availbale for sale from the following growers
365 Lighthouse Rd Wynyard. TAS 7325
PH 03 6442 2012
email to: sales@vdqbulbs.com.au
www.vdqbulbs.com.au