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Scilla Madeirensis 'Madeiran Squill'

Madeiran Squill

Scilla madeirensis, also known as Madeiran Squill, is a rare bulbous perennial native to the cliffs and rocky slopes of Madeira. It produces striking conical spikes packed with dozens of tiny lavender‑blue to amethyst flowers, each bloom typically 1–1.5 cm across, rising above a rosette of fleshy, often purple‑spotted leaves. Mature bulbs are notably ornamental themselves, displaying a glossy amethyst‑purple coloration.

This species thrives in sharply drained, gritty soil with bright light and mild conditions, performing best in full sun to partial shade. It grows approximately 12–24 inches tall and 8–12 inches wide, making it a dramatic specimen for containers, conservatories, or frost‑free gardens. Blooming in late fall to early winter, it provides an unusual burst of color when few other bulbs are in flower.

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When should I plant Scilla Madeirensis 'Madeiran Squill'?

Growing and Maintenance Tips for Scilla Madeirensis 'Madeiran Squill'

Planting: Plant bulbs in fall, 8 inches deep with the pointed end up. Ideal for borders or containers in a sunny, sheltered site.
Spacing: Space 5 inches apart in the ground; closer in pots for a fuller look.
Light: Prefers full sun. Needs abundant light to bloom well—avoid deep shade.
Soil: Well-drained, sandy or loamy soil with a pH of 6.0–7.5. Add grit to improve drainage if needed.
Watering: Water sparingly. Keep soil just moist during active growth, then dry during summer dormancy. Overwatering can cause rot.
Temperature & Protection: Hardy in USDA zones 7–10. In colder zones, grow in containers and move under cover in winter, or mulch deeply to protect from frost.
Fertilization: Feed every 2 weeks with a high-potash fertilizer from bud formation through bloom.
Pruning: Deadhead spent blooms. Allow foliage to die back naturally—sometimes it remains evergreen.
Propagation: Multiplies by offsets. Divide clumps in late summer or early fall if overcrowded.
Pest & Disease: Generally pest-free. Ensure good drainage to prevent bulb rot.