Tubergen's Squill Scilla mischtschenkoana 'Tubergeniana'
ABOUT
Scilla mischtschenkoana 'Tubergeniana', commonly known as the Misczenko squill, is a striking early spring-flowering bulbous plant. It showcases dainty bell-shaped flowers that are predominantly a soft, icy blue coloration, often described as having a frosty appearance. Each petal exhibits a darker blue stripe running down its center, which contrasts beautifully against the lighter background color of the bloom. These flowers are arranged in loose clusters, creating an impressive display even from a distance. The plant itself hosts narrow, glossy green leaves that typically grow in a basal rosette pattern. These leaves gracefully arch outward from the center of the plant, providing a verdant backdrop for the bright blossoms. The foliage's deep green hue complements the frosty blue of the flowers, making the overall appearance of the Misczenko squill quite striking in garden settings, rockeries, or naturalized areas. The charming and delicate look of this plant adds a touch of early color to the landscape, signaling the arrival of spring.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asparagaceae
Synonyms
White Squill, Misczenko's Squill, Early Star Hyacinth, Tubergen Squill
Common names
Scilla mischtschenkoana 'Tubergeniana'.
ToxicityTo humans
The plant commonly known as Miss Willmott’s ghost (or more generally in its family, Squill) can be toxic if ingested by humans. While the toxicity level is considered low, consumption of parts of this plant might cause symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach pain. It’s important to handle the plant cautiously, as skin contact with the sap may cause irritation or an allergic reaction in sensitive individuals. To avoid any risks, it’s best not to ingest any parts of the Miss Willmott’s ghost plant and to wash hands after handling it.
To pets
Miss Willmott’s ghost, which is a member of the Squill family of plants, is also toxic to pets such as cats and dogs. If a pet ingests part of this plant, symptoms could include vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, and lethargy. In severe cases, ingestion could lead to more serious health concerns such as changes in heart rate or breathing difficulties. If you suspect your pet has ingested Miss Willmott’s ghost, it is crucial to contact a veterinarian promptly. To ensure the safety of your pets, keep this plant out of their reach.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
White
Height
0.5 feet (15 cm)
Spread
0.5 feet (15 cm)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
4
Native area
Caucasus Iran
Benefits
General Benefits- Early Spring Blooming: Scilla mischtschenkoana 'Tubergeniana', commonly known as Tubergen squill, offers early spring flowers, often blooming as soon as the snow melts.
- Attracts Pollinators: The flowers provide an important early nectar source for bees and other pollinating insects emerging from hibernation.
- Low Maintenance: Tubergen squill is known for being low maintenance, requiring minimal care once established in the appropriate growing conditions.
- Naturalizes Easily: This plant can spread over time to create natural-looking drifts, which can enhance the aesthetics of a garden space.
- Bright Color: With its bright blue flowers, it adds a splash of color to the garden at a time when few other plants are in bloom.
- Drought Tolerant: Once established, Tubergen squill is relatively drought tolerant, making it suitable for xeriscaping.
- Cold Hardy: It is cold hardy and can survive in cooler climates, making it a versatile choice for many gardens.
- Deer and Rodent Resistant: The plant is generally resistant to deer and rodents, reducing the risk of damage from wildlife.
- Small Size: Its compact size makes it suitable for rock gardens, borders, and underplanting beneath deciduous trees and shrubs.
- Minimal Disease Issues: Tubergen squill is not typically prone to serious disease problems, making it a robust addition to the garden.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Photography Prop: Scilla mischtschenkoana 'Tubergeniana', commonly known as Misczenko's Squill, can be used by botanical photographers as a subject for close-up photos to showcase its beautiful early spring blooms.
- Educational Tool: Horticulture teachers may use Misczenko's Squill to explain bulb propagation and the growth habits of early spring flowers to students.
- Landscape Modeling: Because of their low height and early flowering, Misczenko's Squill can be used in model landscapes and miniature gardens as a representation of larger trees in bloom.
- Artistic Inspiration: The vibrant blue flowers can provide inspiration for artists, serving as a muse for paintings, textile designs, and other forms of artwork.
- Floral Arrangements: Although not traditionally used in cut flower arrangements, Misczenko's Squill can provide an unexpected touch to small, delicate floral displays and table centerpieces in early spring.
- Fairy Gardens: Misczenko's Squill can be included in fairy gardens for their delicate, fairy-like appearance, adding a touch of whimsy and charm.
- Seasonal Celebrations: This plant can be incorporated into seasonal festivals or spring celebrations as a symbol of rebirth and new beginnings.
- Nature Crafts: The small blue flowers can be used in nature crafts, such as in the creation of botanical jewelry or pressed flower art pieces.
- Color Themes: Garden designers can use Misczenko's Squill in monochromatic blue gardens or to create a 'river' of blue when mass planting these bulbs in sweeping drifts.
- Theme Gardens: This plant is suitable for 'blue' themed gardens or for representing the concept of 'cool' colors in a garden designed to teach about color theory.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe plant Tubergen's Squill is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe plant Tubergen's Squill is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Persistence: Scilla mischtschenkoana 'Tubergeniana,' commonly known as Misczenko's Squill, often symbolizes persistence due to its hardy nature and ability to bloom early in the spring, sometimes even pushing through snow.
- Hope and Optimism: The bright, early blooms of Misczenko's Squill are reminiscent of hope and optimism, representing the idea that brighter days are ahead after a long, dark winter.
- New Beginnings: As one of the first flowers to bloom in spring, Misczenko's Squill is associated with new beginnings and the fresh start that the season brings.
- Constancy and Fidelity: The reliable blooming of this plant every spring also makes it a symbol of constancy and fidelity in relationships, indicating unwavering loyalty.
WaterFor the Mischtchenkoana Scilla or 'Tube's Siberian Squill', water the bulbous plant moderately while it's actively growing in the spring and fall. It generally requires watering once a week with about 1 to 2 gallons per square foot, depending on soil moisture and climate conditions. During the summer, when the plant is dormant, water sparingly, only to prevent the soil from completely drying out. Ensure that the soil is well-draining to prevent waterlogging, which can cause bulb rot. Overwatering is a common mistake, so it's important to check the top inch of soil for dryness before watering again.
LightThe Mischtchenkoana Scilla, also known as 'Tube's Siberian Squill', thrives best in partial shade to full sun conditions. It prefers a location where it can receive morning sunlight and partial shade in the afternoon, especially in hotter climates. The plant is adaptable and can tolerate a range of light conditions but too much shade may lead to fewer blooms.
TemperatureFor 'Tube's Siberian Squill' the ideal growing temperature range is between 60°F and 70°F. It can tolerate minimum temperatures down to about 20°F and maximum temperatures up to approximately 80°F, making it well-suited for USDA hardiness zones 2 through 8. During its dormant period in the summer, it is more tolerant of higher temperatures as long as it is kept dry.
PruningPruning is not typically required for 'Tube's Siberian Squill' as the plant naturally dies back after flowering. However, if desired, remove spent flowers to prevent self-seeding and tidy up the appearance. Refrain from cutting back the foliage until it has fully yellowed and died down, which allows the plant to store energy for the next growing season. This usually occurs late in spring or early in summer.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for the Mischtshenko Squill is well-draining, loose soil with a pH of 5.5 to 7.0. A mixture of loamy soil, peat, and sand works well to ensure adequate drainage and provide a suitable environment for root growth. Fertility should be moderate without excessive nutrients that may harm the delicate bulb.
RepottingMischtshenko Squill typically does not require frequent repotting. It should be repotted once every 3 to 4 years, or when the bulbs multiply and start to crowd the pot. Disturbing the bulbs minimally is key to maintaining their health.
Humidity & MistingMischtshenko Squill prefers moderate humidity levels, typical of indoor living spaces. It does not have specific high humidity requirements and can tolerate the natural fluctuations of household air moisture without issue.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light and well-draining soil.
Outdoor
Plant in well-draining soil; partial to full sun.
Hardiness zone
3-8 USDA
Life cycleScilla mischtschenkoana 'Tubergeniana', commonly known as Misczenko Squill, starts its life cycle with the germination of seeds or the sprouting of bulbs in late winter to early spring. During early spring, strap-shaped, glossy green foliage emerges, followed shortly by the bloom of star-shaped, white flowers, often touched with blue, which are arranged in conical racemes. After flowering, typically in late spring, the plant undergoes pollination, often facilitated by insects, leading to seed formation. As spring progresses into summer, the foliage dies back as the plant enters a period of dormancy. Throughout the summer and fall, the plant remains dormant underground as a bulb. In the following late winter or early spring, the cycle repeats, with the bulb regenerating its foliage and flowers, continuing to mature and potentially multiplying through offsets.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring
Scilla mischtschenkoana 'Tubergeniana', commonly known as the Tubergen Squill, is typically propagated by dividing its bulbs. The best time to propagate these plants is in late summer to early fall, after the foliage has died back and the plant is dormant. To propagate, carefully dig up the clump of bulbs and gently separate them. Each offset bulb can be replanted immediately at a depth of about 3 to 4 inches (7.5 to 10 centimeters) apart in well-draining soil. Water the bulbs well after planting to encourage root development. Within a year or two, these offsets will mature into flowering bulbs. This bulb division technique effectively multiplies your collection of these charming early spring bloomers.
