Family: Hyacinthaceae
Common Name: Glory of the Snow

Native to Crete, Turkey and Cyprus, the dainty, star-like flowers of this small genus of dwarf bulbs appear in early spring. The flowers are mainly blue and white, but also come in pink or white. Ideal for rock gardens or for massing in shrub borders.

Species

C. luciliae produces clusters of blue and white flowers. It grows to about 15 cm (6 in) in height.

C. nana (Synonym: C. cretica) produces several delicate, blue and white flowers to a stem. It grows to 15 cm (6 in).

The delightful C. sardensis, from western Turkey, has large clusters of drooping, deep blue flowers. Height is up to 20 cm (8 in) but often much less.

Cultivation

Plant the bulbs about 8 cm (3 in) deep in autumn, in any soil that has good drainage. Best flowering is in full sun. Propagate from offsets at planting time, or from seed sown in spring. These bulbs often self-sow freely.

Climate

Zone 4.