A perennial flower in deep violet which grows on a tall stem with deciduous, bright green foliage. Hardy through most of the UK down to -20°C.
These small spring bulbs sprout bright blue flowers which bloom in April and May. They look like a cross between miniature hyacinths and a bunch of grapes, and will look great at the front of a border, at the edges of shrubbery or naturalised in grass. They are easygoing and can spread a lot without much specialist care or attention; just keep an eye on them to make sure they don't spread too much!
Scientific Name
Muscari armeniacum 'Lindsay' (musky plant from Armenia, cultivar: Lindsay)
Flower: tufted growth
Perennial
Months of Interest
Flowers April - May
Common Name(s)
Grape Hyacinths
Origin
Grape hyacinths originate in the Mediterranean, from Turkey to the Caucasus
Pruning Tips
Trim back the flowers once they have faded, but leave the rest of the stem.
Wildlife Value
Can provide nectar for butterflies, and also are attractive to many other spring-flying pollinators, in particular the hairy-footed flower bee (Anthophora plumipes).
Positioning
Full sun to partial shade is great for these flowers; they can work well naturalised in lawns or in container displays.
Water
They grow best in moist soil; as long as it's not drought conditions, they shouldn't need extra water.
Soil
Moist but well-drained soil is ideal; make sure they are not sat in a puddle! Chalky, loamy and sandy soils are all accepted by the grape hyacinth.
Food
To ensure your soil has plenty of nutrients, it's a good idea to add compost or a slow-release flower fertiliser in Spring.
Pet-safe?
Yes; no toxic effects have been reported, though it's best for the plant and your pets if they don't nibble too much!
Sprouts Top Tips
Grape Hyacinths will spread and can get a little invasive. To prevent seeds developing, cut back spent blooms; to help control the spread, you can lift and divide clumps of the plants. This can also improve the flowers! If they still spread too much, plant into pots. Move in summer when the bulbs are dormant.
