Spring squill

Spring Squill (Scilla verna) is a perennial flowering plant in the family Asparagaceae, native to western Europe. It is one of the earliest spring flowers, blooming from March to May.

Description

Spring Squill grows to 10–15 cm tall, with a bulb 1–2 cm diameter. The leaves are linear, 5–15 cm long and 1–2 mm broad. The flowers are violet-blue, produced on a slender stem up to 15 cm tall.

Distribution and habitat

Spring Squill is native to western Europe, from Ireland in the west, across southern England, France, Spain, and Portugal. It is typically found in coastal areas, on cliff tops and in grassland habitats. It prefers well-drained, sandy or rocky soils.

Cultivation

Spring Squill is cultivated as an ornamental plant for its attractive early spring flowers. It is hardy and can be grown in a variety of conditions, but prefers a sunny position and well-drained soil. It is suitable for rock gardens, borders, and as a ground cover plant.

Uses

In addition to its ornamental value, Spring Squill has been used in traditional medicine. The bulbs have been used as a diuretic and to treat heart conditions. However, the plant is toxic if ingested in large quantities.

Conservation

Spring Squill is not currently considered to be at risk of extinction. However, its habitat is threatened by coastal development and changes in land use. Conservation efforts are focused on protecting its habitat and maintaining populations in the wild.

See also

• List of early spring flowers
• List of European wild flowers

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