Description

Scilla litardierei, often known as Amethyst Meadow Squill, is a later-flowering and moisture-tolerant Scilla species, flowering from late April into May. Unlike its low-growing cousins, S. litardierei forms slender, upright flower stems up to 30–40 cm tall, each topped with a loose, airy spire of violet-blue to lavender star-shaped flowers. These give the plant a meadowy, naturalistic feel that lends itself perfectly to informal, wildlife-friendly designs.

Native to the Balkans, it thrives in heavier soils and is one of the few Scilla suitable for reliably damp conditions which makes it ideal for Irish planting situations where drainage may be variable. It is excellent for naturalising in damp meadows, along stream banks, pond margins, and low-lying garden areas that stay cool and moist in spring.

Over time, it spreads to form gentle colonies, returning reliably with minimal input. A fantastic transition plant between the early spring bulb layer and the onset of summer perennials.

Pairs beautifully with; Camassia leichtlinii (in heavier meadow soils); Leucojum aestivum; or late Narcissus varieties like Thalia or Actaea.

This species is both pollinator-friendly and low maintenance, making it well-suited to naturalistic, estate-scale, or rewilded planting schemes with a focus on ecological enhancement.