Plant of the Month for May 2020

Scilla rosenii

Description and General Information:

This scilla species is native to NE Turkey and the Transcaucasus region of Georgia, Armenia and Russia.  It typically grows in damp, peaty subalpine meadows, blooming within a few days of the snow melt. Leaves and flower stems may reach 10-15 cm. The flowers are generally azure-blue at their tips, fading to nearly white near their base, but may vary from pure white to deep blue. The petals reflex like those of a cyclamen.

Blooming Season:

In the wild, it generally flowers late April to early June but in cultivation may begin blooming as early as March in mild winter areas.

Cultivation:

This scilla requires a well-drained but evenly moist soil.  They can tolerate quite wet soil as they emerge in spring.  Plant them in sun to part shade, in groups to provide a more impactful display.  Ideal rock garden subject as it is slow to multiply compared to other scilla species.

Propagation:

Seed or division.

Divisions:

If the bulbs clump up, then they may be dug and divided as the foliage begins to die down.

Cuttings:

N\A

Seeds:

Sow seeds in fall and leave outdoors for the winter.  It will take 3-4 years for them to reach flowering size.

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