Contents
Description
Scilla Peruviana, commonly known as the Peruvian squill, is a bulbous perennial plant that belongs to the family Asparagaceae. It is native to the Mediterranean region and North Africa but is widely cultivated in gardens and used as an ornamental plant. The plant produces large flower heads that can reach up to 20cm in diameter, and each head can contain up to 100 individual flowers. The flowers are star-shaped and have a bright blue-violet color.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Asparagaceae |
| Genus | Scilla |
Appearance
Scilla Peruviana is a showy plant that can reach a height of up to 30cm. The leaves are strap-like and can grow up to 60cm in length. The flower heads are large and dense, with each head containing numerous star-shaped flowers. The flowers are blue-violet in color and have a waxy texture. The plant blooms in late spring to early summer and produces attractive seed pods after flowering.
Care Guide
Scilla Peruviana is a relatively easy plant to grow and care for. Here are some tips for keeping it healthy:
Water: The plant prefers moist soil but can tolerate some dryness. Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry.
Fertilization: Fertilize the plant with a slow-release granular fertilizer in early spring. Avoid over-fertilizing as it can cause the plant to produce lots of foliage but few flowers.
Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Amend the soil with compost or aged manure before planting.
Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade but may produce fewer flowers.
Hardiness Zones: Scilla Peruviana is hardy in USDA Zones 7-10. It can be grown as an annual in colder climates.
Common Pests & Diseases
Scilla Peruviana is generally not susceptible to many pests and diseases. However, it can be affected by the following:
Slugs and snails: These pests can damage the leaves and flowers. Use organic slug and snail bait to control them.
Fungal diseases: The plant can be affected by fungal diseases such as Botrytis and Fusarium wilt. Avoid overhead watering and improve air circulation around the plant to prevent these diseases.
Habitat
Scilla Peruviana is native to the Mediterranean region and North Africa, where it grows in rocky and sandy soils. It prefers full sun to partial shade and can tolerate drought and heat. The plant is widely cultivated in gardens and is used as an ornamental plant.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Scilla Peruviana be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers. Use a well-draining potting mix and ensure that the container has drainage holes.
Q: How often should Scilla Peruviana be fertilized?
A: Fertilize the plant once a year in early spring with a slow-release granular fertilizer.
Q: What is the best time to plant Scilla Peruviana bulbs?
A: Plant the bulbs in the fall, about 4-6 inches deep and 6-8 inches apart.
Q: Can Scilla Peruviana be grown indoors?
A: The plant can be grown indoors but requires bright light and cool temperatures. It may not flower indoors.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Scilla Peruviana:
- Scilla siberica
- Scilla bifolia
- Scilla campanulata
- Scilla autumnalis
References
- “Scilla peruviana.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed on March 22, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=282148&isprofile=0&basic=Scilla%20peruviana
- “Scilla peruviana.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed on March 22, 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/11937/Scilla-peruviana/Details
- “Scilla peruviana.” Gardening Know How. Accessed on March 22, 2021. https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/bulbs/scilla-peruviana/peruvian-squill-plant-care.htm
