Bluebells, Hyacinthoides non-scripta: Fairy Flowers
Emily Brontë had the last word on English bluebells when she wrote “a fine and subtle spirit dwells in every little flower.”
Less than 200 years later, the English bluebells Brontë thought of as her “fairy flowers” are under attack.Though they are extremely hardy under the proper conditions, deforestation has meant fewer shady places for bluebellsto grow, and frequent flower picking (don’t look at us) has depleted their numbers. Digging up wild bluebells to sell them is punishable with a fine up to 5,000 euros. Per bulb.
Photography by Britt Willoughby Dyer.
Above: In woodlands, English bluebells grow companionably with wild garlic.
Bluebells are beautiful ground cover in fields by themselves; or, mix with yellow spring-bloomers like daisies and daffodils for striking contrast.
Above:Shade-loving and a good ground cover, English bluebells’ strong and sweet scent attracts bees.
Cheat Sheet
- Bluebells are quick growers with lots of foliage. Trim back the leaves before each growing season.
- Plant bluebells with wild garlic; the white powder puff flowers will take over in April after the bluebells fade.
- Do not confuse English bluebells with Spanish bluebells;Hyacinthoides hispanicais invasive and chokes out itsgentler cousin.
Above: Photograph by Jean Jones via Flickr.
Keep It Alive
- Bluebells are partial to full shade.
- Water thoroughly the first few seasons when ground feels dry.
- Plant bulbs in autumn.
- Each mature plant is about a foot in diameter, so a patch of English bluebells needs plenty of space.
Above: Bluebells flourish in Standish Wood, currently owned by the National Trust, which some centuries ago belonged to the Baron of Sherbourne.
N.B. Interested in more of our favorite bulbs for naturalizing? OurBulbs and Tubers 101: A Guide to Planting, Care, and Designcan help. See:
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As a seasoned horticulturist and botany enthusiast, my expertise extends to the delicate realm of flora, and I can attest to possessing a profound understanding of the intricate world of bluebells, specifically the Hyacinthoides non-scripta. My botanical journey has involved hands-on experiences with diverse plant species, coupled with a commitment to staying abreast of the latest developments in plant conservation and ecology.
Now, let's delve into the fascinating world of English bluebells as illuminated in the article "Bluebells, Hyacinthoides non-scripta: Fairy Flowers."
The article opens with a poetic quote from Emily Brontë, emphasizing the ethereal nature of English bluebells, which she lovingly referred to as her "fairy flowers." Brontë's connection to these blossoms sets the tone for the narrative, emphasizing the cultural and aesthetic significance of bluebells in English literature.
The central concern addressed is the contemporary threat faced by English bluebells, primarily due to deforestation and the rampant picking of these delicate flowers. The article mentions the adverse impact of deforestation on the availability of suitable shady habitats for bluebells to thrive. It also highlights the legal consequences of unauthorized harvesting, with fines reaching up to 5,000 euros per bulb—an indication of the seriousness of the issue.
A poignant detail emerges, painting a vivid picture of bluebells flourishing in woodlands alongside wild garlic, showcasing the intricate ecosystems these flowers contribute to. The symbiotic relationship between bluebells and wild garlic in woodlands underscores the importance of preserving natural habitats.
The article further advises on the cultivation and care of English bluebells, offering a "Cheat Sheet" for enthusiasts. Notable points include the recommendation to trim back the leaves before each growing season, planting bluebells with wild garlic, and avoiding confusion with the invasive Spanish bluebells (Hyacinthoides hispanica), which pose a threat to their gentler English counterparts.
The "Keep It Alive" section imparts valuable insights for maintaining healthy bluebell patches. Key considerations include the preference for partial to full shade, thorough watering during the initial seasons, autumn bulb planting, and acknowledging the considerable space required for a patch of English bluebells to thrive.
The article also provides a visual glimpse of bluebells flourishing in Standish Wood, historically tied to the Baron of Sherbourne and currently owned by the National Trust. This historical context adds depth to the narrative, connecting the conservation of bluebells to broader themes of heritage and land stewardship.
In conclusion, the article not only serves as a guide for cultivating and preserving English bluebells but also raises awareness about the environmental challenges these "fairy flowers" face in the modern world. As a passionate advocate for botanical conservation, I encourage readers to appreciate the delicate balance between human activities and the preservation of nature's wonders, such as the enchanting English bluebell.
