Hyacinthoides non-scripta – Bluebell

A deep blue carpet of Bluebells is an unforgettable sight to anyone visiting a British woodland in spring. Although this short/medium height bulbous perennial is extremely familiar it is worth point out the differences between it, the Spanish bluebell H. hispanica and the much planted hybrid H. x massartiana. The two most reliable ways to identify a true native Bluebell are to check that its anthers are cream, not pale blue and that the inflorescence drops at the tip and has flowers hanging to one side. For more information check the BSBI website at www.bsbi.org.uk/html/hyacinthoides_non-scripta.html.

Habitat Information
Bluebell is primarily a plant of deciduous woodland on moist, free draining soils. It is also found in hedgerows, under bracken and occasionally in grassland, particularly on the west coast and in some upland meadows. It avoids shade by sending up shoots early in the season and completing its growth before the tree canopy has developed, shedding seed and dying back through July and August. The bulb of developing plants are drawn down through the soil by contractile roots and can end up as far as 250mm below the surface. At these depths it is prone to waterlogging which is why it tends to be replaced by Ramsons in woodlands on heavier soils.

Growing Information
Bluebell seed requires moist warm conditions followed by a period of chilling before germination can take place so is probably best sown in late summer, but will in time establish from seed sown at any time of the year.

In deciduous woodlands or plantations that cast enough shade to prevent grass growth in summer the best way to establish Bluebell is from seed as is it gives the most naturalistic effect and is cheaper. This does require patience as germination to flowering normally takes about five years.  If you do decide to plant bulbs please make sure they are from a reputable dealer. Despite changes in the law and recent publicity, woodlands are still being illegally raided for their bulbs.