The Bluebell bulbs are bulbs of the English bluebell (Hyacinthoides non-scripta), a Western European naturaliser with deep sky-blue, nodding bells that smell sweet. The plants grow to around 30 to 40 centimetres. Because they multiply by themselves year after year, a small group grows into a blue carpet after a few seasons.

The bulbs are size 7/8 and feel at home under trees and shrubs, in the border and in the lawn. With 20 bulbs you fill a pot of about 30 centimetres or a spot at the foot of a shrub, with 40 bulbs a strip along the path or around a tree. Choose 80 or 160 bulbs to let a larger area of border or lawn naturalise; allow 50 to 70 bulbs per square metre. The fragrant stems also look lovely in a spring bouquet. Combine them with other naturalising bulbs for a garden that grows fuller every year. You will find more greenery for outdoors among our outdoor plants.

When should you plant the Bluebell bulbs?

Plant the Bluebell bulbs between mid-October and the end of November, once the soil has cooled to below 10 °C. The bulbs then still root in before winter without the leaves coming up yet. If there is no frost, you can plant into December. The bulbs need cold to start flowering, so planting in spring will not work.

When do the Bluebell bulbs flower?

The Bluebell bulbs flower in April and May, around the time the trees come into leaf. A flower spike stays attractive for about two to three weeks. In a pot or in a sheltered, warm spot they often start a little earlier, after a cold spring rather later. Leave them undisturbed and they return every year, spreading through seed and offsets.

Care and tips Bluebell bulbs

Set the bulbs pointed end up, about 8 to 10 centimetres deep and 8 to 10 centimetres apart. They grow best in humus-rich soil that stays moist without becoming waterlogged; some leaf mould or compost helps. If you choose a pot, make sure it has holes in the base and a layer of gravel or clay pebbles; our outdoor pots and baskets offer plenty of choice. After flowering, let the foliage die back completely before you remove it or mow the lawn, usually from June. Extra fertiliser is not needed; a layer of leaves or compost in autumn is enough.

Water needs of the Bluebell bulbs

Under trees and shrubs the soil dries out quickly in spring, because their roots take up a lot of moisture. During a dry spell in the growing and flowering period, give them a generous can of water there now and then. In a pot, keep the compost lightly moist as soon as the leaves appear and always let excess water drain away, so the bulbs do not rot.

Light needs of the Bluebell bulbs

Partial shade suits this species best, for example under deciduous trees that still let light through in early spring. There the blue stays deep and the flowers last longest. In full sun they flower too, but the colour fades faster and flowering is shorter.

Are the Bluebell bulbs toxic?

The Bluebell bulbs are mildly toxic if ingested, especially the bulb. Keep them out of reach of pets and young children. The sap can irritate sensitive skin, so wear garden gloves when planting and picking.

How will my Bluebell bulbs be shipped?

Your bulbs are carefully packed and shipped. That way they arrive safely and fresh from the grower.