Overview
Scilla peruviana is a bulbous perennial in the genus Scilla, part of the Q157167 family. Scilla peruviana grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates well-drained and sandy or loamy soils and neutral and slightly alkaline pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H5. Suggested uses include borders, rock gardens and containers. It is native to Mediterranean.
About
Scilla peruviana is a bulbous perennial that flowers in March to April, bringing a strong spring presence from each bulb. Native to the Mediterranean, it prefers well-drained sandy or loamy soils in full sun or partial shade. It suits south-facing, sheltered positions and is rated H5 (hardy) for UK conditions. Bulbs are ornamental and must not be eaten, so wear gloves when handling.
Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Scilla peruviana
About the genus
Scilla is a genus of about 30 to 80 species of bulb-forming perennial herbaceous plants in the family Asparagaceae, subfamily Scilloideae. Sometimes called the squills in English, they are native to woodlands, subalpine meadows, and seashores throughout Europe, Africa and the Middle East. A few species are also naturalized in Australasia and North America.
Wikipedia contributors, "Scilla", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Scilla
In the garden
Scilla peruviana is a bulbous perennial native to the Mediterranean that produces its main display in March to April. It emerges from bulbs and is valued for its concentrated spring flowering; the foliage dies back after the season and the plant spends the warmer months dormant. Plant in a sunny to partially shaded spot with well-drained sandy or loamy soil and a neutral to slightly alkaline pH. Keep soil moisture moderate rather than waterlogged; a south-facing, sheltered aspect helps protect developing shoots and prolong the display in cooler spring weather. The H5 hardiness rating indicates the species is hardy in typical UK gardens but benefits from a protected site. Use Scilla peruviana towards the front of borders, in gravel or rock gardens where drainage is good, or in containers that can be placed against a warm wall. Position bulbs where they will receive spring sun before larger perennials leaf out. Ornamental bulbs are not to be eaten, and handlers should wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Scilla
- Sunlight
- full sun, partial shade
- Soil type
- well-drained, sandy or loamy
- Soil pH
- neutral, slightly alkaline
- Soil moisture
- moderate
- Aspect
- south-facing
- Exposure
- sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H5
Plant details
Scilla peruviana size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- bulbous perennial
- Suggested uses
- borders, rock gardens, containers
- Native to
- Mediterranean
- Toxicity
- Ornamental 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
Pruning and caring for Scilla peruviana
- Cultivation
- Plant bulbs in autumn at a depth of about 10-15 cm. Prefers well-drained soil and a sunny position. Avoid waterlogging.
- Pruning
- Remove spent flower stalks after flowering to tidy the plant.
- Propagation
- By seed or bulb offsets
Frequently asked questions
How do I grow Scilla peruviana?
Plant bulbs in autumn at a depth of about 10-15 cm. Prefers well-drained soil and a sunny position. Avoid waterlogging.
Where is the best place to plant Scilla peruviana?
Scilla peruviana prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Scilla peruviana need?
Scilla peruviana grows best in well-drained and sandy or loamy soil. It prefers neutral and slightly alkaline soil. Aim for soil that stays moderate.
How do I prune Scilla peruviana?
Remove spent flower stalks after flowering to tidy the plant.
Is Scilla peruviana hardy in the UK?
Scilla peruviana has an RHS hardiness rating of H5, meaning it is hardy in most of the UK, tolerating -15 to -10°C.
How do I propagate Scilla peruviana?
By seed or bulb offsets.
Is Scilla peruviana toxic?
Ornamental 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.
