Puschkinia scilloides var. libanotica Alba

Delicate, elegant and wonderfully easy to grow, Puschkinia libanotica 'Alba' produces charming star-shaped, pure white flowers that bring a fresh sparkle to the early spring garden.

A beautiful white form of the much-loved Striped Squill, this delightful bulb originates from the mountains of Lebanon, Turkey and the Caucasus, where it flowers amongst melting snow as winter gives way to spring. Unlike the familiar blue form, 'Alba' offers pristine white blooms, each carried in loose clusters above neat clumps of slender green foliage.

Flowering in early spring, these dainty blooms create a soft, natural effect that looks particularly beautiful weaving through rockeries, woodland gardens, borders and beneath deciduous trees. Their understated elegance makes them ideal for planting alongside Snowdrops, Chionodoxa, Crocuses and miniature Daffodils.

Easy to establish and remarkably reliable, Puschkinia 'Alba' gradually multiplies to form attractive drifts with very little attention, providing a beautiful display that returns year after year. The nectar-rich flowers are also welcomed by early bees and other emerging pollinating insects.

A graceful little bulb that deserves a place in every spring garden.

Planting Instructions

When to Plant:

Plant Puschkinia bulbs in autumn, ideally between September and November, before the ground freezes.

Where to Plant:
Choose a position in full sun or partial shade with well-drained, moderately fertile soil. Puschkinia is ideal for borders, rock gardens, woodland edges, beneath deciduous trees and for naturalising in lawns.

How to Plant:

• Depth: Plant bulbs approximately 8–10 cm (3–4 inches) deep.
• Spacing: Space bulbs about 5–8 cm (2–3 inches) apart.
• Soil Prep: Improve heavy soils with grit or compost to improve drainage and encourage healthy root growth.

Watering:
Water well after planting to settle the soil around the bulbs. Once established, rainfall is usually sufficient, although plants appreciate moisture during active spring growth.

Aftercare Tips:

• Allow the foliage to die back naturally after flowering.
• Leave bulbs undisturbed so they can multiply naturally.
• Lift and divide congested clumps every few years if flowering becomes reduced.

Top Tip:
Plant in generous drifts amongst Snowdrops, Crocuses and Chionodoxa for a beautiful tapestry of early spring colour that will gently spread over time.

Plant Details

Flowering Period:
March – April (depending on season and conditions)

Height:
4–6" (10–15cm) (approx.)

Position:
Full sun or partial shade

Hardy Perennial