About
Scilla bithynica, the Turkish squill, is a small, bulbous perennial to 15 cm with linear, mid-green basal leaves produced in spring at the same time as compact, conical racemes of 6�12 star-shaped, blue flowers. A rewarding and ornamental spring bulb for a sunny, well-drained border or rock garden.
About the genus
Scilla are perennial bulbs with narrow basal leaves and erect stems bearing racemes of star-shaped, flat or bell-shaped flowers which are often blue, purple, pink or white in spring or autumn. Popular and easy-care bulbs for a sunny, well-drained border or rock garden.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectSouth-facing, East-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH6
Plant details
Plant typeBulbs, Herbaceous Perennial
HabitClump forming
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0-0.1 metre
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCity and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden, Gravel garden, Rock garden, Wildflower meadow
Native toS Europe, SW 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
CultivationIdeal for naturalising in grass or a gravel garden in full sun and a well-drained soil. Plant bulbs two to three times their depth. See bulb cultivation and bulbs: naturalising
PruningNo pruning required
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. See bulb propagation
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to anther smuts and virus diseases