About
A clump-forming, bulbous perennial with semi-erect, greyish-green, narrow leaves and perfumed, tubular, bright yellow flowers borne in a dense spike in spring; upper flowers may be a greyish-purple colour.
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, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectEast-facing, North-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH6
Plant details
Plant typeBulbs
HabitClump forming
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0-0.1 metre
Time to full height1 year
Suggested usesCity and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden, Gravel garden, Patio and container plants, Rock garden
FragranceFlower
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 groups, in moderately fertile, moist, but well drained soil in full sun. To retain vigour, lift congested clumps and divide when dormant in autumn
PruningRemove old flower stems and dead foliage in summer
PropagationPropagate by seed in containers in a cold frame in autumn. Divide clumps and plant divisions separately in summer
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