Basket Hyacinth
scilla lilio-hyacinthus
Also known as: ["Basket Squill","Lily Hyacinth"]
Overview
A bulbous perennial with bell-shaped blue flowers, native to the Mediterranean region.
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 lilio-hyacinthus |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: garden bed or container in partial shade
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–25°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"6–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent bulb rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter; can tolerate sandy or gritty mixes.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed after flowering; remove dead foliage in late fall or early spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning; avoid cutting into healthy green leaves.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 4–6 hours daily; tolerate partial shade, especially in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light; protect from direct midday sun to avoid scorching; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid sudden light changes.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overwatering, especially in dormant periods.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes; top-dress with compost annually.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (50–70°F or 10–21°C); tolerates cooler nights during dormancy.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from frost; maintain consistent cool conditions during dormancy.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Reduce frequency in fall/winter; apply after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Division of bulbs or offsets; occasionally from seed.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Separate offsets from parent bulb, plant at the same depth, water lightly, and provide indirect light.
Best Time: After flowering, when bulbs are dormant or just beginning active growth.
Environment
Cool, humid conditions with indirect light; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; can also be planted directly in the garden.
Hormone
Not typically required for bulb division.
Timeline
Offsets may take 1–2 years to mature; seeds take 2–3 years to flower.
Tools Needed
Garden trowel, clean knife, pots or garden space, well-draining soil.
Quick Tips
Handle bulbs carefully to avoid damage; plant offsets immediately after division; label new plants for tracking.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip faded flowers just above the foliage; trim yellowing leaves at the base.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning needed; focus on removing spent flowers and yellowing foliage to encourage bulb health.
Tools
Clean scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Check for dead/damaged parts, use clean tools, prune after flowering, avoid cutting healthy growth.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Late fall or early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Gently lift bulbs, remove old soil, inspect for damage, replant at the same depth in fresh well-draining soil.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when bulbs become crowded; best when the plant is dormant.
Checklist
Check bulb health, use fresh soil, ensure proper depth, water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water deeply, ensure drainage, adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply when the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is loose and airy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves (too hot), stunted growth (too cold), or leaf drop (extreme fluctuations).
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf discoloration, and can lead to root damage if temperatures drop below 40°F (4°C).
Solution: Move to a warmer location, insulate pots, and avoid cold drafts; protect bulbs with mulch in ground settings.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or premature flowering due to heat stress.
Solution: Provide shade, increase humidity, water more frequently, and ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase, dilute fertilizer, apply to moist soil, avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCats are particularly sensitive to the toxic compounds in Scilla lilio-hyacinthus. Ingestion can cause severe gastrointestinal irritation and systemic effects, potentially leading to more serious health complications.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Scilla lilio-hyacinthus can lead to significant gastrointestinal upset and potential systemic toxicity due to the plant's alkaloid content. The effects can range from mild discomfort to severe illness.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicScilla lilio-hyacinthus contains toxic compounds that can cause gastrointestinal distress and other systemic effects upon ingestion. The plant's tissues contain alkaloids and other irritants that disrupt normal physiological processes.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Scilla lilio-hyacinthus toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: How often should I water this plant?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry between waterings.
Q: Does this plant attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees and butterflies with its flowers.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asparagaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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