Care of the bulbous plant Muscari azureum or Azure grape hyacinth |
|
The genus Muscari, family Asparagaceae, comprises 40-50 species of bulbous plants native to Asia and Europe. Some species are: Muscari azureum, Muscari macrocarpum, Muscari latifolium, Muscari neglectum, Muscari armeniacum, Muscari comosum. Common name: Azure grape hyacinth. This species is native to Turkey. They are small bulbous plants that reach 12 cm (4.72") in height. They have linear, keel-shaped green leaves. The scented and showy blue flowers appear on flower stalks above the leaves. They bloom during the first weeks of spring. They are used in pots, to form groups under trees or shrubs, to create colored spots on lawns, on rockeries and on borders. Muscari azureum prefers full sun exposure but also grows in light shade. They are low-maintenance plants that resist the cold well. The soil must be well drained and contain organic matter. The bulbs are planted in autumn 10 cm (3.93") deep and 7 cm (2.75") apart. Water regularly so that the soil is always slightly damp. After flowering the leaves begin to dry out; greatly reduce irrigation. Fertilize with compost at the time of planting the bulbs. They do not need pruning. They are quite resistant plants to the usual pests and diseases; sometimes they can be attacked by viruses. They are propagated in summer by division or in autumn from seeds sown in a glassed nursery. |
Images of the bulbous plant Muscari azureum or Azure grape hyacinth |
 Muscari azureum  Muscari azureum  Muscari azureum |