Grape Hyacinth, Starch grape hyacinth

Muscari neglectum

Physical Characteristics

Muscari neglectum is a BULB growing to 0.3 m (1ft) by 0.1 m (0ft 4in) at a medium rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 4 and is not frost tender. It is in flower from April to May, and the seeds ripen from July to August. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. The plant is self-fertile. It is noted for attracting wildlife. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers dry or moist soil.

Distribution

Mediterranean region, north to Britain, Belgium, Germany and S. Russia.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Dappled Shade; Lawn;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Flowers Root Edible Uses: Bulb - cooked[2, 132, 177, 183]. The bulb is up to 25mm diameter[200]. One report says that the bulb might be poisonous[4]. The flowers, sprinkled over rhubarb, add a wonderful scented flavour[183].

Medicinal Uses

None known

Known Hazards

The bulb is poisonous[4]. It contains a substance called comisic acid, which is said to act like saponin[4]. Although poisonous, saponins are poorly absorbed by the human body and so most pass through without harm. Saponins are quite bitter and can be found in many common foods such as some beans. They can be removed by carefully leaching the seed or flour in running water. Thorough cooking, and perhaps changing the cooking water once, will also normally remove most of them. However, it is not advisable to eat large quantities of food that contain saponins. Saponins are much more toxic to some creatures, such as fish, and hunting tribes have traditionally put large quantities of them in streams, lakes etc in order to stupefy or kill the fish[K].