Scilla madeirensis (Madeiran Squill)

Native to the island of Madeira, Scilla maderensis (Madeiran Squill) is a rare bulbous perennial forming a large and beautiful amethyst purple bulb, about 4 in. across (10 cm). The lush foliage of fleshy, pointed leaves, up to 12 in. long (30 cm), is often adorned with attractive purple dots. In late fall to early winter, a 6 in. long (15 cm) conical raceme packed with numerous tiny amethyst blooms can be enjoyed. The blossoms give way to fleshy dark green fruits maturing to yellow. Endangered in the wild, this exotic species is very rare in cultivation and seldom seen for sale. It is not winter-hardy and requires a minimum of 40°F (5°C). Similar in size and shape to the amaryllis, it can be grown indoors or in a cool greenhouse – just like the amaryllis, where it will eventually multiply into a large family of offsets. The bulb has a brief dormant period in the summer, but new leaves will appear in the fall, followed a month later by the striking flower stalk. A choice ornamental bulb.

• Grows up to 16-24 in. tall (40-60 cm).
• Easily grown in fast-draining soil in bright, indirect light and moderate temperatures between 45-85°F (7-29°C) during the growing period.
• Pant in early fall in high-quality potting soil, keeping the neck and shoulders of the bulb above the soil. Provide regular watering and feeding while actively growing. Keep dry during summer dormancy and move the pot to a cool spot indoors. Resume watering at the first sign of new growth.
• The whole plant is poisonous. Ingestion may cause severe discomfort. Wear gloves and wash your hands after handling.