Bellevalia

Bellevalia, similar to muscari, are charming little spring bulbs that belong to the Liliaceae or Asparagaceae family, depending on the classification.

The genus comprises 65 species found from the Mediterranean Basin to Central Asia, including or Roman hyacinth, B. pycnantha (synonym Muscari paradoxum), and B. trifoliata which are starting to be cultivated in gardens. They all have in common the production of tightly packed clusters of flowers in April-May, reaching a height of 30 to 40 cm (12 to 16in), emerging from a small tuft of ribbon-like leaves. The flower colours range from white to green Bellevalia Green Pearl) and from blue to very dark purple-brown depending on the varieties.

Bellevalia sometimes naturalise without becoming invasive, in light and well-drained soils, preferably dry in summer. Plant the bulbs in September-October at the base of deciduous bushes, in a wild meadow, borders, or rockeries.