Algerian Squill
scilla haemorrhoidalis
Also known as: ["Algerian Squill","Squill"]
Overview
A bulbous perennial with blue or white flowers, native to North Africa and the Mediterranean region.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Asparagales |
| Family: | Asparagaceae |
| Genus: | Scilla |
| Botanical Name: | Scilla haemorrhoidalis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: indoor pot or outdoor garden bed in a sheltered spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–25°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–10"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with added perlite or sand; can include some organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every few months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid removing more than one-third of the plant at a time.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerates partial shade, especially in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light; protect from direct midday sun to prevent scorching; adjust indoor placement to mimic natural light cycles.
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 winter.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix designed for succulents or cacti; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots drain well.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); cooler temperatures (50–60°F or 10–15°C) during dormancy in winter.
Protect from frost; avoid placing near heating/cooling vents; maintain stable temperatures during active growth.
Fertilizing
monthly during spring and summer, none in fall and winter
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; avoid overfertilizing.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of offsets; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a healthy cutting, apply hormone (if used), plant in medium, keep moist, provide warmth and indirect light.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; can also root in water initially.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining soil mix.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep cuttings out of direct sun; maintain humidity with a plastic cover.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip dead leaves at the base; trim back leggy stems to encourage branching.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or yellowing leaves to maintain plant health and appearance; shape as needed to encourage bushier growth.
Tools
Clean pruning shears or scissors, gloves.
Checklist
Sanitize tools, remove dead foliage, shape lightly, clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
One size up from current pot; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently, trim roots if necessary, place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil, water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial to refresh soil and provide space.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot, prepare new soil, handle roots carefully, water after repotting, place in appropriate light.
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 and fungal risk.
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 pots have drainage holes.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or bud drop in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf discoloration or dieback if exposed to prolonged cold below 50°F (10°C).
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots; avoid cold drafts; reduce watering in cold periods.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or premature flowering if exposed to excessive heat above 85°F (29°C).
Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging; ensure good air circulation.
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 and summer; cease fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCats are highly sensitive to the cardiac glycosides in Scilla haemorrhoidalis, which can lead to severe cardiac and neurological effects. The toxins can cause rapid physiological deterioration.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicThe cardiac glycosides in Scilla haemorrhoidalis can cause significant toxicity in dogs, affecting their heart rate and rhythm. The toxins disrupt normal cellular functions, leading to systemic effects.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicScilla haemorrhoidalis contains cardiac glycosides, which can disrupt heart function and electrolyte balance, leading to serious physiological effects. The toxins interfere with cellular processes, particularly affecting the cardiovascular and nervous systems.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Scilla haemorrhoidalis toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is mildly toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: How often should I water Scilla haemorrhoidalis?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry between waterings.
Q: Does Scilla haemorrhoidalis attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds 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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