Portuguese squill Scilla peruviana
ABOUT
Scilla peruviana, commonly known as the Portuguese squill, is a bulbous perennial that features a striking appearance, characterized by its rosette of glossy green leaves. These leaves are typically strap-shaped and arch outwards, creating a lush, dense greenery at the base of the plant. From the center of this rosette, in the flowering season, emerges a stout stem topped with a cone-shaped cluster of starry flowers. The flowers of the Portuguese squill are often a rich, deep blue or purple, though sometimes they can be found in shades of white. Each individual blossom is small, with six pointed petals, and they are tightly packed into the dense cluster at the top of the stem, resembling an upside-down cone or a tall pyramid in structure. The overall effect is quite showy and can add a burst of vibrant color to any garden setting. The Portuguese squill is prized for its ornamental value, with its attractive foliage serving as a lush backdrop to its dramatic floral display. The plant has a robust and sturdy appearance when in full bloom, drawing attention with its vivid coloration and unique flower structure. Despite its common name suggesting a link to Peru, it is actually native to the Mediterranean region. Its exotic look has made it a favorite in gardens, where it provides a touch of Mediterranean charm.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asparagaceae.
Synonyms
Cuban Lily, Portuguese Squill, Giant Squill, Hyacinth of Peru, Peruvian Bluebell, Peruvian Lily.
Common names
Hyacinthus stellatus, Hyacinthus peruvianus, Ornithogalum peruvianum, Scilla hughii.
ToxicityTo humans
The plant commonly known as Portuguese squill (Scilla peruviana) contains chemical compounds that are toxic to humans. Ingesting any part of the plant, especially the bulbs, can lead to symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. In severe cases, ingestion can also cause salivation, lethargy, and even harm to the nervous system. Care should be taken to avoid ingestion and to keep the plant out of reach of children.
To pets
Portuguese squill (Scilla peruviana) is also toxic to pets, including cats and dogs. The toxicity results from steroidal saponins present in the plant. If a pet ingests any part of Portuguese squill, they might experience vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, abdominal pain, and decreased appetite. More serious symptoms might include lethargy, ataxia or cardiovascular issues. It is important to prevent pets from accessing the plant and to consult a veterinarian immediately if ingestion is suspected.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Blue
Height
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Spread
1 foot (30 cm)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
7
Native area
Mediterranean
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental value: Scilla peruviana, commonly known as Portuguese squill, is highly appreciated for its striking blue to purple flowers that add visual interest to gardens and landscapes.
- Ease of care: It is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal care once established, making it suitable for both beginner and experienced gardeners.
- Attracts pollinators: The vibrant blooms of Portuguese squill attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinating insects, which are beneficial for the ecosystem.
- Drought tolerance: Once established, Portuguese squill is relatively drought-tolerant, making it a good choice for water-wise gardens and arid climate areas.
- Bulb propagation: It can easily be propagated through dividing its bulbs, allowing gardeners to spread the plant throughout their garden or share with others.
- Seasonal interest: Portuguese squill typically blooms in spring, providing an early splash of color after the winter months.
- Container gardening: It is well-suited for container gardening, allowing those with limited space such as balconies or patios to enjoy its beauty.
Medical Properties- This plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Cuban Lily bulbs can be used as a natural dye source for fabrics, providing a range of colors depending on the mordant used.
- The robust nature of the Cuban Lily makes it a useful plant for coastal gardens, helping to stabilize sandy soils with its root system.
- The flower's nectar and pollen can provide a food source for bees and other pollinators early in the spring when not many plants are in bloom.
- In mild climates, Cuban Lily can be grown in outdoor rock gardens and provide an interesting aesthetic due to its large and showy flower heads.
- The plant can be used in educational settings such as schools and botanical gardens to teach about bulbous plant growth and reproduction.
- Crafters sometimes use the dried flower stalks of the Cuban Lily in floral arrangements and wreaths for their striking appearance.
- Cuban Lily can serve as a companion plant in the vegetable garden, its tall blooms can help to attract pollinators to aid in the production of fruits and vegetables.
- The flowers of the plant can be used as a natural potpourri when dried, providing a subtle fragrance to household spaces.
- Landscape designers might use Cuban Lily when creating blue-themed garden designs due to its vibrant blue flower hues.
- It can be utilized as a living fence or border in garden areas, especially since it is not palatable to deer and can thus remain undisturbed.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Peruvian lily is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Peruvian lily is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Constancy and Perseverance: The Scilla peruviana, commonly known as the Peruvian lily, emerges with vibrant colors each year, symbolizing the persistence of life and beauty in the face of challenges.
- Surprise and Discovery: With its striking star-shaped flowers appearing in spring, the Peruvian lily often symbolizes the unexpected joy and surprise in discovering new wonders in life.
- Communication: The bright, eye-catching blooms can represent the importance of clear and effective communication, enhancing connections between individuals.
WaterCuban lily should be watered thoroughly, allowing the soil to become moderately dry between waterings. During the active growth period in spring and early summer, you might water approximately once a week, using about a half gallon for a medium-sized pot to ensure the soil is evenly moistened. When the plant is dormant, after flowering, reduce watering frequency significantly, providing just enough to prevent the soil from completely drying out. It's important not to let the pot sit in water as this can lead to root rot.
LightCuban lily thrives in bright, indirect light but can also tolerate partial shade. The best spot for this plant is near a window that receives ample sunlight throughout the day, but shielded from the harsh direct rays of the afternoon sun. East or west-facing windows are ideal locations, providing a balance of light intensity and duration that supports healthy growth.
TemperatureCuban lily prefers temperatures between 60 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit for optimal growth. It can tolerate a minimum temperature of around 50 degrees Fahrenheit but should not be exposed to temperatures below this as the cold can damage the plant. Keeping the plant in its ideal range will promote vigorous growth and a healthy blooming cycle.
PruningPruning Cuban lily isn't typically necessary for health reasons but can be done to remove spent flower stalks after blooming to maintain a tidy appearance. This is best done after the flowers have faded and the stalk is yellowing, usually in late spring or early summer. Regular removal of dead or damaged foliage is also beneficial and can be done as needed.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe Peruvian lily requires well-draining soil with a neutral to slightly acidic pH of about 6.5 to 7. A mix of loam, sand, and organic matter like peat or compost will ensure good drainage and fertility. Regular feeding with a balanced fertilizer will support its lush growth.
RepottingPeruvian lilies should be repotted every 2-3 years to prevent overcrowding. The best time to repot them is after they have finished flowering and have entered a period of dormancy.
Humidity & MistingThe Peruvian lily does fine in average room humidity levels but thrives in higher humidity. A level between 40-60% is ideal for this plant. Avoid placing it near heating vents or air conditioners that can dry out the air.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place Peruvian lily in bright, indirect light and ensure the pot has good drainage.
Outdoor
Plant in a shaded or semi-shaded spot, protecting from harsh midday sun.
Hardiness zone
7-10 USDA
Life cycleThe life cycle of Scilla peruviana, commonly known as Portuguese squill, begins with the germination of a seed or the sprouting of a bulb during late winter to early spring. The plant then develops strap-shaped, glossy green leaves and starts to form a robust stem. In late spring to early summer, Scilla peruviana produces dense, cone-shaped clusters of star-shaped blue flowers atop this stem. After flowering, the plant sets seed, and the aerial parts die back to the ground as it enters a dormant phase in summer. During dormancy, the bulb conserves energy, surviving underground until the next favorable growth season. When conditions are right again, typically with the onset of cooler, wetter weather, the cycle recommences with new foliage emerging from the bulb.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring
Scilla peruviana, commonly known as the Portuguese squill, is typically propagated through division of the bulbs. The best time to propagate Portuguese squill by bulb division is in the summer, after the plant has flowered and when the foliage has begun to die back. This allows the bulbs to be handled when they are dormant, minimizing stress on the plants. To divide the bulbs, carefully unearth the clump and gently pull apart the offsets from the main bulb. Ensure that each section has at least one growth point. Replant the divisions immediately at a depth of about 4 inches (10 centimeters), allowing sufficient space for the bulbs to mature. Water the newly planted bulbs well to help establish them.
