Scilla cilicica is a species of flowering plant in the genus Scilla, native to Cyprus, Lebanon, Syria, Palestine, Turkey, and Israel. It is a perennial growing to a height of 50cm, with a similar width, flowering from February to March with violet-purple flowers.
Cilician Squill is fairly resistant to disease and generally does not suffer from illnesses. However, it can be vulnerable to pests and diseases present in its environment, and such infections are usually mild. Regarding care, this plant requires a moderate level of maintenance. It should be pruned regularly to keep a pleasing appearance and ensure healthy growth. Fertilizing can also help encourage flowering. Cilician Squill is appropriate for anyone with outdoor space, such as a garden or patio, and does not demand extensive plant-care experience. It may need more attention when grown indoors.
How to keep Scilla Cilicica.
Light
Cilician Squill is native to habitats like forest understories or rocky sites, where it grows in natural shade. It favors partial sun but can adjust to full sun or full shade, illustrating its adaptable and hardy nature.
Water
Scilla cilicica thrives in a moist, well-drained environment and typically requires watering once a week. It can withstand short periods of dryness and grows best in cool climates. Once it finishes flowering, the plant goes dormant and its water needs decrease significantly.
Temperature
Cilician Squill can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, but its distribution may still be limited by different combinations of moisture and heat. It does best in warm summer climates with adequate rainfall or watering. Extended periods of cloudy, rainy weather or prolonged high temperatures can raise the chance of Cilician Squill dying. In winter, providing proper protection from cold can increase the plant's survival rate.
Fertilizer
The primary time to fertilize Cilician Squill is in early spring when the flowers are forming. The proper fertilizer promotes better blooms and helps the plant produce attractive flowers. Fertilizing at that early-spring stage helps ensure excellent flowering during the season and supplies energy for dormant growth phases.
Pruning
Scilla cilicica benefits greatly from pruning in early spring, which removes dead foliage and promotes healthy growth. After the blooming period, trim back the spent flower stalks to encourage future blooms. Keeping the area clean during pruning reduces the risk of disease and improves both the appearance and air circulation, contributing to the overall health of the plant.
Botanical profile.
- Plant Type
- Herb
- Life Cycle
- Perennial
- Genus
- Scilla
- Family
- Asparagaceae
- Hardiness Zone
- 5-9
- Mature Height
- 10 cm to 15 cm
- Mature Spread
- 5 cm to 10 cm
- Leaf Color
- Dark Green
- Leaf Type
- Deciduous
- Flower Size
- 1.02 cm to 2.03 cm
- Bloom Time
- Late winter, Early spring
- Planting Time
- Spring, Summer
- Harvest Time
- Mid spring, Late spring
- Native Area
- Turkey, Cyprus, Syria, Lebanon