About
Muscari discolor is a bulbous perennial producing the characteristic narrow leaves and dense spikes of two-toned, urn-shaped flowers of the genus in spring. A rewarding and ornamental spring bulb for a sunny, well-drained border or rock garden.
About the genus
Muscari, the grape hyacinths, are bulbous perennials with linear or strap-shaped leaves and small, bell-shaped, tubular or urn-shaped flowers borne in dense racemes on erect, leafless stems in spring. Easy and rewarding bulbs for borders, rock gardens and containers.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectNorth-facing, West-facing, South-facing, East-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH6
Plant details
Plant typeBulbs
HabitTufted
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0-0.1 metre
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCity and courtyard gardens, Gravel garden, Patio and container plants, Wildflower meadow, Cottage and informal garden, Rock garden
Native toEurope to C Asia
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 maintain vigour. May be invasive
PruningNo pruning required; faded foliage may be removed if required
PropagationPropagate by seed, sown in autumn, in containers in a cold frame or separate offsets 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