All About the Bluebell
The common bluebell, or simply the bluebell, is found most often in the British Isles, but can be found all the way into north-western Spain as well as in many gardens around the world. They are perennial bulbs in the same family as hyacinths, are a favorite wildflower renowned for the stunning “bluebell carpets” they create throughout woodlands in the springtime. They are a protected species in the United Kingdom, and are illegal to remove from the land or sell.
Description of the Bluebell Flower
Bluebells have a distinct look, with their arching stem and of course, the blue bell-shaped blooms that adorn it. The tone of the bells can vary from purple hues to the traditional blue, and are the perfect way to add a splash of such a unique colour to a yard or garden. They can grow up to around 50cm tall, but appear shorter due to their drooping stem. They have a soft, sweet scent to them, and are sure to brighten up even the most dreary of gardens.
Uses for Bluebells
The primary use for bluebells is as a garden flower. They are fairly easy to grow and continue to come back each year, making them great choices for non-committal gardeners. Bluebells, like many other flowers, are also commonly used in folk medicine. They are used to treat leucorrhoea, and also to act as a diuretic or styptic. The sap from the stems can also be used as a form of adhesive. Like most bulb flowers, bluebells are not a good choice for cut bouquets or arrangements, as once the stems are cut, they tend to die off within a day or two.
Growing Bluebells
Bluebells are an easy flower to grow in the right conditions. The bulbs should be planted 10cm deep and 15cm apart in well-drained fertile soil. They need to be watered regularly from bulb to bloom and until they die off completely, but it’s well worth the effort. Bluebells will help bridge the season gap between your spring blooms and your summer blooms, and will make your garden look spectacular.