Bluebell

Hyacinthoides nonscripta

Physical Characteristics

Hyacinthoides nonscripta is a BULB growing to 0.3 m (1ft) by 0.2 m (0ft 8in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 5 and is not frost tender. It is in flower from May to June, and the seeds ripen from July to August. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Flies, beetles. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and can grow in heavy clay soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers dry or moist soil.

Distribution

Western Europe from the Netherlands and Britain o Belgium and France.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Dappled Shade; Shady Edge;

Edible Uses

None known

Medicinal Uses

Diuretic Styptic The bulb has diuretic and styptic properties[4]. It is used as a remedy for leucorrhoea[4].

Known Hazards

The bulb (and the whole plant?) is poisonous[4].