Grape Hyacinth 'Plumosum' (Muscari)

Where to Plant:

Commonly known as the Feather Hyacinth, this is a real curiosity and a talking point for the spring garden. It produces a highly unusual, fluffy plume of thread-like, sterile, violet-purple flowers. To get the best display, choose a position in full sun with fertile, very well-drained soil. It is an excellent choice for a rockery, a gravel garden, or a container where its unique texture can be appreciated up close. It is less suited to mass planting than common grape hyacinths.

How to Plant:

You should plant the bulbs in the autumn, from September to November. Plant them at a depth of approximately 10-15cm (4-6 inches) with the pointed tip facing upwards. For the best effect, plant them in small, tight-knit groups of five or seven, spacing the bulbs about 10cm apart. This allows the individual, feathery flower heads to stand out while still creating a cohesive clump.

Aftercare:

This is a straightforward bulb to care for. After the unusual flowers have faded in late spring, it is important to allow the foliage to die back naturally, as this is how the bulb builds up energy for the following year. In well-drained soil, it is reliably perennial and will return each year. It does not tend to self-seed as aggressively as other muscari varieties.