Scilla are among the easiest and most rewarding spring bulbs for a Canadian garden, and unlike most spring flowers, many thrive in shade. The group includes the vivid blue Siberian squill (Scilla siberica) and the taller Spanish and English bluebells (Scilla campanulata and Scilla nutans). Planted in fall, they naturalize freely, returning each spring in growing drifts of blue, white, and pink. Here's how to plant and grow Scilla and bluebells successfully.
When to Plant
Plant Scilla bulbs in autumn, ideally from September through November, before the ground freezes. Fall planting lets the bulbs establish roots over winter and produce their colourful display in early spring. Plant as soon as possible after receiving your bulbs for the best results.
Where to Plant
Choose a location in full sun to partial shade. Scilla grows beautifully beneath deciduous trees and in woodland gardens, rock gardens, borders, and naturalized areas where it can spread over time. These bulbs prefer well-drained soil and do particularly well in spots that stay relatively dry during summer dormancy. Their tolerance for shade makes them one of the few spring bulbs that will carpet a woodland edge.
How to Plant
Loosen the soil and remove any weeds before planting. Set bulbs with the pointed end facing up. Planting depth depends on the type:
- Small squills (Scilla siberica): about 5–8 cm (2–3 inches) deep, 5–8 cm apart
- Bluebells (Scilla campanulata, Scilla nutans): about 8–10 cm (3–4 inches) deep, 10 cm apart
After planting, cover with soil and water lightly to settle the bulbs into place. For a natural look, scatter bulbs in loose groups rather than straight rows.
Ongoing Care
Scilla needs very little once established. Water during prolonged dry spells in spring if conditions are unusually dry, but avoid soggy soil. Allow the foliage to die back naturally after flowering, as the leaves replenish the bulb's energy for next year. Over time, Scilla multiplies and forms larger drifts. Clumps can be divided after flowering if you'd like more plants, though they're often happiest left undisturbed to naturalize.
Scilla, Squill, and Bluebells: What's the Difference?
These names cause a lot of confusion, so here's a quick guide:
- Siberian squill (Scilla siberica): short, intense cobalt-blue, one of the earliest to bloom
- Spanish bluebell (Scilla campanulata): taller, upright spikes of bell-shaped blue, pink, or white flowers
- English bluebell (Scilla nutans): graceful, arching stems with fragrant, nodding blue bells
- Glory of the Snow (Chionodoxa): a close relative with star-shaped blue flowers, planted and grown the same way
Quick Facts
- When to plant: Fall (September–November), before the ground freezes
- Light: Full sun to partial shade; tolerates woodland shade
- Soil: Well-drained; drier in summer dormancy
- Depth: 5–8 cm for small squills, 8–10 cm for bluebells
- Bloom time: Early to mid-spring
- Habit: Naturalizes freely; low maintenance; deer-resistant
Frequently Asked Questions
Do bluebells grow in Canada?
Yes. Spanish and English bluebells (Scilla campanulata and nutans) are winter hardy across much of Canada and naturalize well in shadier gardens.
What is the difference between scilla and bluebells?
Bluebells are types of Scilla. "Scilla" usually refers to the smaller Siberian squill, while "bluebells" refers to the taller Spanish and English species.
Where do Scilla grow best?
In full sun to partial shade with well-drained soil. They're one of the few spring bulbs that thrive under trees and in woodland gardens.
Do Scilla come back every year?
Yes. Scilla are perennial bulbs that return each spring and multiply into larger drifts over time.
Browse our scilla and bluebell collection, including Siberian squill, Spanish bluebells, and English bluebells.
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