1 / 4

Key characteristics

Family: Asparagaceae
Height: 1 ft to 2 ft
Width: 1 ft to 1.5 ft
Flower color: Dense spherical clusters of violet blue star shaped flowers with dark stamens
Foliage color: Broad strap like deep green leaves forming a dense basal clump
Bloom time: Late spring to early summer
Light: Full sun to partial shade
Water: Moderate
Maintenance: Low; remove spent flower stalks and allow foliage to die back naturally
Growing zone: USDA zones 8 to 10
Wildlife: Bees, butterflies and pollinators attracted to nectar and pollen rich flowers

Bulbs

Scilla Peruviana

Portuguese Squill

Scilla peruviana produces dense, dome-shaped clusters of starry violet-blue flowers in mid to late spring, creating a bold focal point during the flowering season. Broad, strap-like leaves are deep green and glossy, that provides texture during bloom. Each flower cluster is composed of dozens of individual florets packed tightly together that attracts bees and other pollinators.

Native to the western Mediterranean region, particularly Spain, Portugal, and North Africa, this species has long been cultivated for its ornamental appeal.

Light

Full sun to partial shade

Water

Moderate

Bloom time

Late spring to early summer

Find this plant

Works well in

Borders
Cottage Gardens
Under Trees
Containers
Cut Flower Gardens

Companion plants

Catmint · Heucheras · Lady's mantle · Hellebores · Hardy geraniums · Hostas

Design tip

Summer flowers carry the middle of the season, so place it where the bed needs color once spring bulbs fade. Plant in generous groups rather than single spots, and set them among perennials whose new growth covers the fading foliage.

Printable plant sheet (PDF)