About
Hyacinthoides hispanica, the Spanish bluebell, is a vigorous, bulbous perennial to 40 cm with erect, strap-shaped, glossy, dark-green leaves, quickly forming large, spreading clumps. Upright flower spikes carry broad, blue, bell-shaped flowers with blue anthers all around the stem in spring. A popular and easy naturalising bulb for borders, grass and woodland edges.
About the genus
Hyacinthoides, the bluebells and Spanish bluebells, are bulbous perennials with linear to strap-shaped leaves and bell-shaped or star-shaped blue, violet or white flowers in spring. Excellent for naturalising in grass or woodland and for borders.
Growing conditions
SunlightPartial shade
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectNorth-facing, West-facing, East-facing, South-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH6
Plant details
Plant typeBulbs
HabitClump forming
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0-0.1 metre
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCottage and informal garden, Wildflower meadow, Wildlife gardens
Native toW Europe
FragranceFlower
ToxicityHarmful if eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling. Pets (dogs, cats, rabbits): Harmful if eaten. For further information and contact numbers regarding pets, see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants
Care notes
CultivationPlant 8cm deep in autumn in moderately fertile, humus-rich, well-drained soil that does not dry out; spreads rapidly and has the potential to become a nuisance in the wrong place, but also a good plant for wildlife. See bluebells for further advice
PruningNo pruning required; can deadhead to prevent self-seeding
PropagationPropagate by seed, sown in pots in a cold frame when ripe, keep shaded and do not allow to dry out. Alternatively remove offsets in summer
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free