These brave little plants often endure the hardships of wind, rain, and late snow to forge their way into the Spring landscape. For most of us, there are but two species of scillas: Scilla sibirica and Scilla campanulata.
But more than 80 species have been classified, and 30 or more species and varieties are commercially handled by growers.
From the cold climate of Siberia, some keen plantsman brought the Siberian squill, Scilla sibirica, more than 150 years ago. It has readily adapted itself to American gardens and grows with equanimity in the sun or shade.
It is best planted without a formal pattern, although some gardeners prefer to use it as an early edging plant, followed by annuals. There is also a white form.
Decidedly taller is the wood hyacinth or Spanish bluebell, Scilla campanulata, or, more correctly, Scilla hispanica. Often 18″ inches tall, it is very effective when massed with azaleas, especially yellow varieties. White forms, several shades of blue, and even pink sorts can be had.
Wood hyacinths are ideal plants where late Spring bloom is needed in shady areas. They are at home in woodsy soil and combine well with ferns and other native plants. Think of them as useful bulbous plants that like to colonize.
When they grow too thick, dig them after flowering, and reset them immediately. A top-dressing of old manure, every few years, will keep them in a flourishing condition. Plant the bulbs of Scilla sibirica 2″ inches deep and those of Scilla campanulata 4″ – 6″ inches below the soil surface.