Scilla bulbs plants and flowers for the garden
Scilla are a group of flowering bulbs probably best known for Scilla peruviana and Scilla natalensis which has been renamed Merwilla plumbea.
Scilla peruviana is hardy and easy to grow, a humus rich well drained soil in full sun to part shade. Early flowering almost in late winter with flowers range from purple and blue through to more difficult to obtain colours such as pink and white. Scilla work well planted in clumps. Scilla siberica or ‘siberian squill with its nodding blue flowers makes a great rock garden plant.
The large flowers of S.peruviana (its from spain) that appear in late spring make this a great addition to the garden. Its large blue flowers with a deeper almost purple centre are a standout in the garden. A white flowering form is also available (see picture right).
Growing conditions and Care
These bulbs do not like to be disturbed, so when dividing be prepared for a year or two with no or few flowers, however once established they will form a large clump. Mulch well when dormant especially in cold climates. A humus rich well drained soil in part shade is best.
Full sun to part shade in a humus rich moist but well drained soil. Scilla like to planted with the shoulders of the bulb above ground level. White flowering. These bulbs will form a clump over a 5 – 6 years and can easily be divided in autumn if needed.
Further Information
Scilla peruviana is known as Portuguese Squill and is a wonderful blue flowering bulb from the Mediterranean, this makes it an excellent choice for the Australian garden. The large flowerheads make a spectacular display in spring.
White flowering species also exist such as the rare Scilla peruviana subsp. hughii.
Scilla siberica or ‘Wood Squill’ are a much smaller flowering species with nodding downward facing blue flowers.
Scilla Bulbs are available for sale form the following nurseries
412 James Lane, Fern Hill VIC. 3458 - Phone 0419002651
Large range of Rare plants, Climbers, Bulbs, Perennials Fruit Trees, Ornamental Trees and Shrubs. Available both Retail and by Mail Order
www.whitehousenursery.com.au
2 Jacksons Hill Rd, Menzies Creek VIC 3159
Hundreds of different varieties of daffodils as well as other beautiful spring & autumn flowering bulbs for home gardeners. Free colour catalogues available. Tulips, Daffodils,Alliums, Freesias, Iris and many other bulbs.
www.daffodilbulbs.com.au
365 Lighthouse Rd Wynyard. TAS 7325
PH 03 6442 2012
email to: sales@vdqbulbs.com.au
www.vdqbulbs.com.au
PO Box 7040 Leura NSW 2780
Rare woodland plants, Trilliums Epimediums, Arisaemas, plus much more.www.lynnsrareplants.com.au