Grape Hyacinth 'Grape Ice' (Muscari)

Where to Plant:

This is a highly distinctive and eye-catching variety of Grape Hyacinth, featuring bicolour flower spikes with deep purple lower florets topped by a contrasting cap of icy white. It is very easy to grow and is adaptable to a position in full sun or partial shade. It is not demanding about soil type, as long as it does not become waterlogged. It is perfect for creating interesting displays in spring containers, at the front of borders, or in rockeries where its unique colouring can be appreciated.

How to Plant:

You should plant the small bulbs in the autumn, from September to November, for flowers the following spring. Plant them at a depth of about 10cm (4 inches), with the pointed tip facing upwards. To make the most of their striking bicolour effect, they are best planted in generous, dense clumps rather than scattered thinly. Space the individual bulbs about 5-8cm apart from each other.

Aftercare:

This is a very low-maintenance bulb. It is quite normal for it to produce its grassy leaves in the autumn, which will then persist through the winter. After the flowers have finished in the spring, it is very important to allow this foliage to die back and turn yellow on its own, as this process feeds the bulb for next year. It will multiply easily; if you want to prevent it from spreading, snip off the spent flower heads.