Scilla bifolia aka Alpine Squill

Taxonomy

Scilla bifolia, also known as the alpine squill or two-leaf squill, is a bulbous herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the genus Scilla in the family Asparagaceae. It grows from an underground bulb, which is typically 1-2 cm in diameter. The plant features narrow, paired basal green leaves that are lance-shaped, curved, fleshy, and shiny. The leaves clasp up to about half of the stem. In February to March, Scilla bifolia produces erect stems that bear racemes of 2-10 star-shaped flowers. These flowers are pale pink in color with darker pink centers. Unlike its relative, Scilla siberica, the flowers of Scilla bifolia face upward. They are around 1 cm in diameter and have six deep violet-blue tepals, although white, pink, or purple varieties can also occur. The plant produces capsules as fruits, which are about 6-8 mm in diameter. Scilla bifolia has been recognized with the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit, indicating its value in garden settings. However, if you wish to get rid of this plant, you can dig it out or cover the area with black plastic to prevent its spread. Any stray Scilla that emerges in the garden can be dug out as well. Alternatively, you may use glyphosate and consistently target the surviving plants, but this will require reestablishing the turf afterwards.

Common names

Alpine Squill, Two Lead Squill, Early Squill

How to care for Alpine Squill

Difficulty

Even if you don't have a green thumb, you can successfully care for Alpine Squill due to its easy-going nature.

Water

Alpine Squill should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Soil

Alpine Squill loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.

Lighting

To ensure optimal growth, the Alpine Squill prefers bright diffused light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.

Toxicity

The toxicity level of this plant has not been officially confirmed by Ploi. If there is a possibility of ingestion of plant material with an uncertain toxicity by you, a family member, or a pet, it is advisable to seek the assistance of a medical professional.

Growth-pattern

Alpine Squill grows vertically and new growth emerges from the top of the plant.


More info:
Wikipedia