Forbes' Glory-of-the-snow
Scilla forbesiiUSDA | Grow Zone
5-8Outdoors all year in zones 5 to 8. Anywhere colder, keep it as a houseplant. Protect it below 20°F.
- Light
- Full sun to partial shade
- Water
- Moderately, every 1-2 weeks
- Humidity
- 40-60%
- Temperature
- 60-75°F (15-24°C)
- Difficulty
- Beginner
- Growth
- Moderate
- Mature size
- 6-12 in tall, wide
- Pets
- Non-toxic to pets and children
Scilla forbesii, commonly known as Forbes' Glory-of-the-snow, is a charming spring-flowering bulb native to the Mediterranean region. Its vibrant blue flowers and early bloom make it a favorite among gardeners looking to add color to their landscapes.
Ask Vesper about Forbes' Glory-of-the-snow
Ideal temperature
60-75°F is where it grows fastest. Below 20°F cold damage starts.
Spacing and harvest
- Mature size
- 6-12 in tall, wide
- Plant apart
- 6-12 in
- Frost
- Hardy: survives frost
Everything it needs
9 essentials at a glance
Watering
Scilla forbesii prefers well-drained soil and should be watered moderately.
During the growing season (spring to early summer), water every 1-2 weeks, allowing the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings. In the dormant period (late summer to winter), reduce watering significantly, only providing moisture if the soil is completely dry. Signs of over-watering include yellowing leaves and root rot, while under-watering may cause wilting and browning leaf tips.
Light
This plant thrives in full sun to partial shade, ideally receiving 4-6 hours of direct sunlight daily.
A location that receives morning sun and afternoon shade is optimal, as it helps prevent leaf scorch. Scilla forbesii can tolerate some shade but may produce fewer flowers in lower light conditions.
Soil
The ideal soil for Scilla forbesii is a well-draining mix, preferably sandy or loamy with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.0.
Good drainage is crucial to prevent bulb rot, so consider using a potting mix designed for bulbs or adding perlite to improve aeration and drainage.
Humidity
Scilla forbesii prefers moderate humidity levels, around 40-60%.
If grown indoors, increase humidity by placing a tray of water near the plant or using a humidifier. Signs of low humidity stress include browning leaf tips and wilting.
Temperature
This plant prefers temperatures between 60-75°F (15-24°C) during the growing season and can tolerate cooler temperatures down to 20°F (-6°C) during dormancy.
It is hardy in USDA zones 5-8, making it suitable for a range of climates, but it is not frost-tolerant.
Fertilizing
Use a balanced fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 10-10-10 during the growing season, applying every 4-6 weeks.
Avoid fertilizing during the dormant period. Signs of nutrient deficiency include stunted growth and poor flowering, which can be remedied by adjusting the fertilization schedule.
Pruning
Pruning is minimal for Scilla forbesii.
Remove spent flowers to encourage better growth and prevent seed formation. After the foliage has died back, cut it back to the ground to maintain a tidy appearance. Use clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears to avoid damaging the plant.
Repotting
Repot Scilla forbesii every 2-3 years or when the bulbs become overcrowded.
Choose a pot that is 1-2 inches larger in diameter than the current one. Signs that it needs repotting include roots growing out of the drainage holes and reduced flowering. To repot, gently remove the plant from its pot, separate the bulbs if necessary, and replant in fresh, well-draining soil.
Propagation
Scilla forbesii can be propagated through bulb division or seed sowing.
For bulb division, wait until the foliage has died back in late summer, then carefully dig up the bulbs and separate them. Replant immediately in well-draining soil. For seed propagation, collect seeds after flowering and sow them in a seed tray with a light soil mix. Keep the tray moist and in a cool, shaded area until germination occurs, which may take several weeks.
When it's unhappy
Yellow leaves
Why it happens
Over-watering or poor drainage.
How to fix it
Reduce watering frequency and ensure the pot has adequate drainage holes.
Root rot
Why it happens
Excess moisture in the soil.
How to fix it
Allow the soil to dry out completely and consider repotting in fresh, dry soil.
Wilting leaves
Why it happens
Under-watering or low humidity.
How to fix it
Increase watering frequency and humidity levels around the plant.
Poor flowering
Why it happens
Insufficient light or nutrient deficiency.
How to fix it
Ensure the plant receives adequate sunlight and consider fertilizing during the growing season.
Browning leaf tips
Why it happens
Low humidity or over-fertilization.
How to fix it
Increase humidity levels and reduce fertilizer application.
Care through the year
Spring
In spring, ensure your Scilla forbesii receives adequate sunlight as it begins to grow. Water regularly, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
Summer
During summer, continue regular watering and consider fertilizing every 4-6 weeks to promote blooming. Monitor for pests and diseases.
Fall
In fall, reduce watering as the plant enters dormancy. Allow the foliage to die back naturally before cutting it back to the ground.
Winter
In winter, keep the plant in a cool, dry location. Water sparingly, only if the soil is completely dry, to prevent bulb rot.
Toxicity & Safety
Scilla forbesii is considered non-toxic to pets and children. However, ingestion of any plant material can cause mild gastrointestinal upset, so it is advisable to keep it out of reach of young children and pets.
Good to know
Why are my Scilla forbesii leaves turning yellow?
Yellow leaves on Scilla forbesii can indicate over-watering or poor drainage. Ensure the soil is well-draining and reduce watering frequency.
How often should I water my Scilla forbesii?
Water Scilla forbesii every 1-2 weeks during the growing season, allowing the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings.
What type of soil is best for Scilla forbesii?
A well-draining sandy or loamy soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.0 is ideal for Scilla forbesii to prevent bulb rot.
When should I repot my Scilla forbesii?
Repot Scilla forbesii every 2-3 years or when the bulbs become overcrowded, typically in late summer after the foliage has died back.
How can I increase humidity for my Scilla forbesii?
Increase humidity by placing a tray of water near the plant or using a humidifier to maintain levels around 40-60%.
Is Scilla forbesii toxic to pets?
No, Scilla forbesii is non-toxic to pets and children, but ingestion of any plant material can cause mild gastrointestinal upset.
What are the signs of nutrient deficiency in Scilla forbesii?
Signs of nutrient deficiency include stunted growth and poor flowering. Adjust your fertilization schedule if you notice these symptoms.
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