About
A clump-forming, bulbous perennial, with narrow, linear green leaves to 20cm long. In spring, produces upright flower spikes, bearing feathery masses of pale violet, threadlike, sterile flowers.
About the genus
Muscari are bulbous perennials with linear or strap-shaped leaves and small bell-shaped, tubular or urn-shaped flowers borne in a dense raceme on an erect leafless stem
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun
Soil typeChalk, Loam, Sand, Clay
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectSouth-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH5
Plant details
Plant typeBulbs
HabitClump forming
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height1-2 years
Suggested usesCity and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden, Gravel garden, Patio and container plants, Rock garden, Wildflower meadow
ToxicityOrnamental bulbs - not to be eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling Pets: Ornamental bulbs - not to be eaten - see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants for further information and useful contact numbers
Care notes
CultivationPlant 10cm deep in autumn in any moderately fertile, well-drained soil. Lift and divide congested clumps (when dormant in summer) to maintain vigour
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by division, separating offsets when dormant
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to fungal infections including anther smuts and bluebell rust (see rust diseases), and bacterial soft rot and some virus diseases