The Scilla mischtschenkoana is a genus from the Asparagaceae family and is native to the Caucasus and south Russia. Earlier the Scilla was seen as a member of the lily family but after more recent studies the Scilla is now a member of the Asparagaceae family.

The common name for Scilla mischtschenkoana is squill. The word scilla comes from the Greek word skilla which means sea-squill. Other names that are used for Scilla mischtschenkoana are Scilla Tubergeniana and Scilla mischtschenkoana ‘Tubergeniana’. This perennial got these names because the Dutch bulb company Van Tubergen introduced this plant to Western Europe.

The squill is a bulbous perennial that easily spreads by offsets and self-seeding.

The Scilla mischtschenkoana is an easy to grow plant and suitable for rock gardens. This spring bloomer can be planted under deciduous shrubs and trees and is very drought tolerant.

The flowers are light blue and will fade to nearly white. After the bloom the leaves stay green for some time. Do not cut them because the squill uses these leaves to build up the energy to bloom again next year.

 

 

Attracts bees: yes

Characteristic: newly emerging every year

Deer resistant: yes

Exposure: sun/ part shade

Flower color: blue

Flowering time: January – March

Foliage color: green

Fragrant flower: yes

Hardiness: -25 ºC (-13 F)

Height: 8 inches (20 cm)

Soil: normal/moist