Care of the bulbous plant Muscari azureum or Azure grape hyacinth |
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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. Azure grape hyacinth is 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. It's a low-maintenance plant that resists 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. Muscari azureum does not need pruning. Azure grape hyacinth is a quite resistant plant to the usual pests and diseases; sometimes it can be attacked by viruses. Muscari azureum is 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 |