Cuban Lily
scilla peruviana
Also known as: ["Peruvian Lily","Cobalt Squill"]
Overview
A bulbous perennial plant native to the Mediterranean region, known for its striking cobalt-blue flowers arranged in dense clusters.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Asparagales |
| Family: | Asparagaceae |
| Genus: | Scilla |
| Botanical Name: | Scilla peruviana |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in a sunny spot, or as a container plant in a sheltered location
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent bulb rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed after flowering; occasional tidying of yellowed leaves.
- Pruning Intensity: Light; focus on removing dead or damaged parts.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade (4–6 hours direct sun); tolerates bright indirect light indoors.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sun; protect from harsh midday sun; adjust placement based on light intensity.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light; provide shade during peak summer; monitor for sunburn.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; avoid waterlogging; adjust based on season and growth phase.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with grit if needed.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates mild frosts but thrives in warm conditions.
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature swings; adjust watering in extreme heat.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize only during active growth; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use balanced formula.
Propagation
Methods
Seeds or bulb division; seeds take longer but yield more plants.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Separate offsets from parent bulb.
- Plant at same depth.
- Water lightly.
- Provide warmth.
Best Time: Spring, when bulbs are actively growing.
Environment
Warm (65–75°F), bright indirect light, moderate humidity.
Medium
Well-draining mix (e.g., cactus soil with perlite or sand).
Hormone
Not typically required for bulb division; optional for seeds.
Timeline
Seeds: 1–2 years to germinate and establish; bulb division: immediate growth.
Tools Needed
Sharp knife, clean pot, well-draining soil.
Quick Tips
Use fresh seeds for best germination; ensure bulbs are firm and healthy; avoid overwatering.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut flower stalks at base; trim yellowed leaves near the base.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning needed; remove spent flower stalks to encourage bulb growth.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruners.
Checklist
Check for dead/damaged parts; sanitize tools; prune after flowering.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, after flowering.
Pot Size
One size larger pot; ensure 1–2 inches of space around bulb.
Method
Use fresh well-draining soil; place bulb at same depth; ensure good drainage holes.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when bulbs become crowded; best when actively growing.
Checklist
Check root health; use fresh soil; ensure drainage; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess to drain; water early morning or late evening to minimize evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply during active growth (spring-summer), reducing frequency in fall-winter; allow soil to dry partially between waterings.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves (cold stress); stunted growth (heat stress); leaf drop.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may cause root rot if soil remains wet in cold conditions.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; ensure well-draining soil; reduce watering in cool periods.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt or scorch; growth may slow under intense heat.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water early morning or evening.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; stop in dormant season.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during spring-summer; avoid fertilizing in fall-winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicScilla peruviana is toxic to cats, with cardiac glycosides posing a significant risk to their health. Ingestion can lead to severe cardiac and gastrointestinal issues.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicThe plant is toxic to dogs due to the presence of cardiac glycosides, which can cause serious systemic effects, particularly affecting the heart and digestive system.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicScilla peruviana contains toxic compounds, including cardiac glycosides, which can have severe physiological effects on humans. Ingestion can lead to significant cardiovascular and gastrointestinal disturbances.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Scilla peruviana toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: How often should I water Scilla peruviana?
A: Water sparingly during dormancy and moderately during active growth, ensuring the soil is well-drained.
Q: Does Scilla peruviana attract wildlife?
A: Yes, its flowers attract bees and butterflies, making it a good choice for wildlife gardens.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asparagaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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