Spanish Bluebell

(Hyacinthoides hispanica)

Spanish Bluebell (Hyacinthoides hispanica)

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Estimated Native Range

Summary

Hyacinthoides hispanica, commonly known as Spanish Bluebell, is a deciduous perennial herb native to a variety of habitats including open woodlands, meadows, and grasslands in the Iberian Peninsula. It typically grows to a height of 12-18 inches (30-45 cm) with a similar spread. The Spanish Bluebell is recognized for its clusters of bell-shaped flowers, which are a paler blue compared to the common bluebell, and are held on erect, sturdy stems. The flowers bloom in spring, creating a carpet of color that is less showy than some other spring bulbs but still quite attractive. The broader leaves are a rich green, and the plant also produces blue anthers, unlike the creamy-white ones of Hyacinthoides non-scripta. While it has little to no scent, the Spanish Bluebell is still valued for its ability to naturalize and fill in spaces with its delicate blooms.

Spanish Bluebell is appreciated for its tolerance of a range of conditions, making it a versatile choice for woodland gardens, borders, and underplanting beneath deciduous trees. It is also used for naturalizing in informal areas. This plant prefers moist, well-drained soils and can thrive in both full sun and part shade. It is relatively low maintenance, but gardeners should be cautious as it can become invasive outside its native range, particularly in parts of the United States. It is important to check local regulations before planting to ensure it is not a threat to native ecosystems.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

Plant Type: Herb
Height: 0.8-1.5 feet
Width: 0.8-1 feet
Growth Rate: Moderate
Flower Color: Blue, Pink, Purple, White
Flowering Season: Spring
Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
Water: Medium
Drainage: Medium

Common Uses

Bank Stabilization, Border Plant, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Fragrant, Groundcover, Low Maintenance, Potted Plant, Rock Garden, Showy Flowers, Street Planting

Natural Habitat

Open woodlands, meadows, and grasslands in the Iberian Peninsula

Other Names

Common Names: Hispanic Hyacinthoides, Spanish Squill, Spansk Skilla, Spansk Klokkeskilla, Jacinthe D’Espagne, Scille D’Espagne, Spansk Klokkeblåstjerne, Spaanse Hyacint, Spansk Klockhyacint

Scientific Names: , Hyacinthoides hispanica, Scilla hyacinthoides, Scilla hispanica, Scilla campanulata, Hyacinthoides non-scripta subsp. hispanica, Endymion campanulatus, Endymion patulus, Endymion hispanicus, Scilla patula

GBIF Accepted Name: Hyacinthoides hispanica (Mill.) Rothm.