Scilla siberica alba

Elegant, pristine and wonderfully easy to grow, Scilla siberica 'Alba' is a beautiful white-flowered form of the much-loved Siberian Squill, producing sparkling star-shaped blooms that brighten the garden in the earliest days of spring.

Despite its common name, Siberian Squill is native to the Caucasus, southern Russia and Turkey rather than Siberia. This charming white selection offers a refreshing alternative to the traditional blue forms, with pure white flowers held on graceful stems above narrow, fresh green foliage. The luminous blooms seem to glow in the cool spring sunshine and create a wonderfully fresh, natural look.

Flowering just as winter begins to loosen its grip, Scilla siberica 'Alba' is perfect for naturalising beneath deciduous trees, along woodland paths, through lawns or in rock gardens. It combines beautifully with Snowdrops, Crocuses, Chionodoxa, Puschkinia and early Narcissi, bringing softness and elegance to mixed spring displays.

Exceptionally hardy and remarkably reliable, the bulbs multiply steadily over time to form impressive drifts that return year after year with very little attention. The flowers also provide an early source of nectar for bees and other pollinating insects.

A charming little bulb that brings timeless beauty and purity to the spring garden.

Planting Instructions

When to Plant:

Plant Scilla siberica 'Alba' 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. Siberian Squill is ideal for woodland gardens, rockeries, borders, beneath deciduous trees and for naturalising in lawns.

How to Plant:

• Depth: Plant bulbs approximately 5–8 cm (2–3 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 while maintaining good soil fertility.

Watering:
Water thoroughly 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 foliage to die back naturally after flowering.
• Leave bulbs undisturbed so they can multiply and naturalise.
• Lift and divide overcrowded clumps every few years if flowering becomes reduced.

Top Tip:
Plant in generous drifts with blue Scilla siberica, Snowdrops and pale blue Puschkinia for a stunning woodland display that announces the arrival of spring.

Plant Details

Flowering Period:

February – March (depending on season and conditions)

Height:
4–6" (10–15cm) (approx.)

Position:
Full sun or partial shade

Hardy Perennial