Plant of the week

TUBERGEN SQUILL Scilla mischtschenkoana, aka Scilla tubergeniana

DESPITE the tongue-twister name, this is one of the prettiest and earliest of the little blue bulbs to flower. Related to better-known scillas such as deep blue S. s ibirica, this plant has the palest flowers, which are shaped like sixpointed stars. Individual petals are almost white, but with a darker blue line running down the centre of each petal. Though charming in an alpine pan or planted in small clumps, this scilla is rugged enough to naturalise in short grass or a border. In rich soil, mature flower spikes can reach 15cm. Almost any freedraining soil will suit them.