Overview
Gagea reticulata is a tufted bulbs in the genus Gagea, part of the Liliaceae family, with deciduous foliage. Gagea reticulata grows best in partial shade, and tolerates loam soils and alkaline and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H6. Suggested uses include cottage and informal garden, wildflower meadow and wildlife gardens.
About
Gagea reticulata is a tufted bulbous plant belonging to the genus Gagea in the Liliaceae family. It features deciduous foliage and thrives best in partial shade with an east or west-facing aspect in sheltered locations. This cultivar prefers moist but well-drained loam soil that is neutral to alkaline in pH. Hardy to UK zone H6, it is suitable for cottage and informal gardens, wildflower meadows, and wildlife gardens. Interest is mainly in spring and summer, and it requires watering during establishment for successful growth.
About the genus
Gagea is a large genus of spring flowers in the lily family. Gagea are perennially flowering plants. It is found primarily in Eurasia with a few species extending into North Africa and one species in North America.
Wikipedia contributors, "Gagea", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Gagea
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Gagea
- Sunlight
- Partial shade
- Soil type
- Loam
- Soil pH
- Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained
- Aspect
- East-facing, West-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H6
Plant details
Gagea reticulata size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Bulbs
- Habit
- Tufted
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Suggested uses
- Cottage and informal garden, Wildflower meadow, Wildlife gardens
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Gagea reticulata
- Propagation
- See bulb propagation
- Pest resistance
- Generally pest-free
- Disease resistance
- Generally disease-free
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Gagea reticulata?
Gagea reticulata prefers partial shade. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Gagea reticulata need?
Gagea reticulata grows best in loam soil. It prefers alkaline and neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.
Is Gagea reticulata hardy in the UK?
Gagea reticulata has an RHS hardiness rating of H6, meaning it is very hardy, tolerating -20 to -15°C across most of the UK.
How do I propagate Gagea reticulata?
See bulb propagation.
From the Fenn Plants journal
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- Keeping Your NerveHow to garden through a heatwave — the best time to water, why deep soaks beat daily sprinkles, caring for pots and vulnerable plants, and why you can let the lawn go brown.
- Made to LastHow to clean, store and protect garden pots and planters — the frost-proof vs frost-resistant difference, winter care for terracotta and ceramic, and how to reuse a broken pot.