About
Scilla litardierei, the amethyst meadow squill, is a clump-forming, bulbous perennial to 25 cm with up to five narrowly strap-shaped, semi-erect basal leaves and spikes of small, star-shaped, violet-blue flowers in early summer. A rewarding and ornamental bulb for a sunny, well-drained border or meadow 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
AspectWest-facing, East-facing, South-facing, North-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH6
Plant details
Plant typeBulbs
HabitBushy
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0-0.1 metre
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesRock garden, City and courtyard gardens, Coastal, Cottage and informal garden, Gravel garden, Patio and container plants
Native toCroatia
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