Muscari botryoides
Muscari botryoides
Italian grape hyacinth produces neat compact spikes of sky-blue or white globular flowers in March and April. 'Album' is a popular white form. Slightly smaller and tidier than armeniacum with less aggressive spreading. The white form is particularly attractive and less commonly grown. Reliable in UK gardens.
Where to plant
Best aspect
Border position
When to plant and expect flowers
Plant
Flowers
How to grow muscari botryoides
Plant 8cm deep in autumn. The white form 'Album' is particularly attractive with tulips. Less invasive than armeniacum. Good for containers and rock gardens. Multiplies at a manageable rate.
Soil requirements
Soil type
loam, sand, chalk
Moisture
well drained
pH
neutral, alkaline
Aftercare
Allow foliage to die back naturally after flowering. Remove spent flower heads to prevent self-seeding.
Propagation
- Offsets in autumn
- Seed
Wildlife value
Toxicity
Mildly toxic. Contains saponins that can cause gastrointestinal discomfort if ingested in quantity.
Common problems
- Slugs
- Excessive moisture
Similar bulbs to grow
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