Care of the bulbous plant Scilla peruviana or Portuguese squill |
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The genus Scilla, family Asparagaceae, comprises 90 species of bulbous plants native to Asia, Africa and Europe. Some species are: Scilla peruviana, Scilla obtusifolia, Scilla natalensis, Scilla latifolia, Scilla bifolia, Scilla autumnalis, Scilla lanceolata, Scilla italica, Scilla lanceolata, Scilla sibirica, Scilla odorata. Common names: Portuguese squill, Cuban lily, Giant Scilla. This species is native to the Mediterranean region. They are small plants with pear-shaped bulbs that reach 40 cm (15.74") in height. The linear and pointed leaves appear in a rosette and are fleshy. They produce spectacular blue inflorescences in the shape of conical umbels. They bloom in spring. This easy-to-grow plant is used in rockery, on borders, in groups of bulbous plants and in pots for terraces and balconies; Portuguese squill is also used as cut flowers. It's ideal for gardens by the sea. Scilla peruviana needs exposure to full sun or light shade. It resists occasional frosts down to -3 ºC (26.6 ºF). The soil can be a normal garden soil with a little organic matter. Water regularly until flowering because the resting phase begins and Cuban lily no longer needs water. Fertilize with manure in the fall. Scilla peruviana is a quite long-lived plant and resistant to the usual pests and diseases. Portuguese squill is propagated from the bulblets that the plant produces; if it's propagated from seeds, wait 3 years for the first flowering. |
Images of the bulbous plant Scilla peruviana or Portuguese squill |
 Scilla peruviana  Scilla peruviana  Scilla peruviana |