Hyacinthoides non-scripta – Common Bluebell

The Common Bluebell, scientifically known as the Hyacithoides non-scripta, is to be found flowering in the woodlands of Western Europe and the British Isles. This bulbous perennial flowers, en masse, during April and May and produces a spectacle that has inspired and challenged artist for generations.

  • Plant Family – Part of the Asparagaceae family or asparagus family that includes Asparagus, Camassia, Hosta, Hyacinth and Yucca. 
  • Native to – These flowering plants are native to the areas of Western Europe near to the Atlantic Ocean.
  • Common Names – It is often called the Common Bluebell or Woodland Bluebell. 
  • Flowers – The flowers are small and bell shaped in a single violet-blue colour. The flowers grow on one side of the stem producing a curved flower head, unlike the Bluebells more often found in gardens.
  • Foliage – The leaves spread radially at ground level leaving the stems to grow from up and flower.
  • Height and Spread – The bulbs lay dormant in the ground over winter and come back to life in the spring. The leaves spread about 12″ around the base and the steps come up between 12″ to 18″ inches high.
  • Position – These plants thrive in a shaded or partially shaded location with a well drained soil. This makes them ideal in a woodland garden, but also work in a wildflower meadow, cottage garden or herbaceous border.

Overall, these plants will thrive and multiply, once established and protected from damage. Walking over them can lead to permanent damage that they will struggle to recover from. Admire from a distance.

Blinkling Hall - Great Wood - Bluebells May 2025 -8

Rank

Species

Names

Scientific name:

Hyacinthoides non-scripta

Common Names:

Bluebell

Genus:

Hyacinthoides

Family:

Asparagaceae

Related Plants:


Asparagus, Camassia, Hosta, Hyacinth and Yucca

Growing Conditions

Position:

partial shade

Soil Type:

sandy, loamy, chalky, clay

Soil pH:

acid, neutral, alkaline

Moisture:

moist, well drained

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