Broad-leaved Grape Hyacinth

A tall and unusual grape hyacinth, Muscari latifolium is very deep purple-blue at the base of the flower-spike with a tuft of pale lilac-blue above, giving a rich and harmonious effect. The lightly scented flowers appear in March and April. The leaves are broader and flatter than those of the common grape hyacinth, and it does not have such an invasive tendency, so it is good in borders, or as an underplanting for tulips. Broad-leaved grape hyacinth also naturalises well, and would look lovely with little hoop-petticoat daffodils planted in short grass. It can also be planted in very gritty soil-based compost in pots, and lasts well as a cut flower. A tough, hardy little bulb, broad-leaved grape hyacinth holds the RHS Award of Garden Merit.

Site: Tolerates exposure
Soil: Any well-drained soil
Position: Full sun or partial shade
Planting period: September to December
Flowering period: Early to mid-spring
Planting: Depth: 4 (10cm) Spacing: 4 (10cm)
Height: 6-8 (15-20cm)