Northwest Blooms · Bulbs
Scilla mischtschenkona
White Squill
- Family
- Asparagaceae
- Height
- 4 to 8 in
- Width
- 4 to 8 in
- Flower color
- Pale blue to white star-shaped flowers with darker blue midribs
- Foliage color
- Medium green, narrow strap-like leaves that rise from the ground before or with flowers
- Bloom time
- Early spring
- Light
- Full sun to partial shade
- Water
- Moderate moisture
- Maintenance
- Low; remove spent flowers to tidy appearance, allow foliage to die back naturally after bloom, divide bulbs when clumps become crowded
- Growing zone
- USDA zones 3 to 9
- Wildlife
- Bees and other early-season pollinators
About this plant
Scilla mischtschenkona produces soft, pale blue to white flowers marked with deeper blue midribs along each petal, forming delicate star-shaped blooms. The blossoms are held in small clusters on slender stems above narrow, arching green foliage that emerges in late winter to early spring. Flowers open fully in bright light, creating a gentle wash of color across early spring plantings.
This species originates from the Caucasus region near the Caspian Sea. It works well in woodland gardens, beneath deciduous trees, along pathways, and in naturalized drifts where its subtle tones blend easily with other early bulbs.
Works well in
Borders · Cottage Gardens · Under Trees · Woodland Gardens · Rock Gardens
Companion plants
Astilbes · Foxgloves · Bergenias · Sedums · Forget-me-nots · Japanese anemones
Design tip
The early flowers arrive when the garden is still waking up, so give it a spot you pass often in spring. Plant in generous groups rather than single spots, and set them among perennials whose new growth covers the fading foliage.
