The silver squill, a resilient and sturdy species, originates from the arid savannas of South Africa. This perennial plant is celebrated for its vibrant and captivating appearance as a houseplant, while in warmer climates, it serves as an excellent groundcover and a valuable addition to xeriscape gardens. For optimal growth, it is recommended to plant the silver squill in the spring to fully utilize its summer growing season.
Characterized by its striking features, the silver squill exhibits lance-shaped leaves with silver and green leopard spots on the upper side and purple spots on the underside. As the plant matures, teardrop-shaped bulbs emerge above the ground. Remarkably, the silver squill has the ability to retain moisture in its stems during periods of drought, making it well-adapted to arid conditions.
In the spring, the plant produces small green flowers on pink stems, which elegantly emerge from the rosette-shaped foliage, adding a delightful touch to its overall appeal. With its adaptability and captivating beauty, the silver squill is a fantastic choice for both indoor and outdoor cultivation in suitable climates.
Silver squill is toxic to humans and pets.
| Common Name | Silver squill, wood hyacinth, leopard lily |
| Botanical Name | Ledebouria socialis |
| Family | Asparagaceae |
| Plant Type | Perennial |
| Mature Size | 6-10 in. tall and wide |
| Sun Exposure | Partial |
| Soil Type | Well-drained |
| Soil pH | Acidic, neutral, alkaline |
| Bloom Time | Spring |
| Flower Color | Green |
| Hardiness Zones | 10-11 (USDA) |
| Native Area | Africa |
| Toxicity | Toxic to humans, toxic to pets |
Silver Squill Care
Silver squill plants are known for their easy-care nature. They undergo a winter rest period during which watering is reduced. This decrease in water intake enables the plant to enter its natural dormancy phase.
With a compact size, typically reaching a height of only 6 to 10 inches, silver squills are well-suited for both indoor and outdoor cultivation, making them a great choice for areas with limited space.
Light
Silver squill thrives in bright indirect sunlight, requiring at least three to four hours of such light exposure per day. In its natural habitat, it is often found in closed evergreen woodlands where it receives partial shade.
Water
Once silver squill plants are well-established, they have low watering needs and are considered drought-tolerant, similar to succulents. It is essential to allow the top inch of the soil or potting medium to dry out before watering, especially during the warmer months. During the winter rest phase, watering should be reduced to half the frequency.
Soil
Silver squill prefers humus-rich, sandy soil, but it can also grow in rocky soil within a pH range of 6 to 8. Proper drainage is crucial for its well-being.
Temperature and Humidity
Indoors, silver squill adapts well to typical interior temperatures. Outdoors, it thrives best in ambient temperatures around 60 degrees Fahrenheit or higher. The plant can tolerate winter temperatures as low as approximately 30 degrees Fahrenheit. It generally prefers an environment with low to average humidity.
Fertilizer
During the active growth period in spring and summer, applying a balanced liquid fertilizer every two months for in-ground plants and monthly for container plants can enhance its health and development.
Types of Silver Squill
There is no standardized horticultural nomenclature for silver squill cultivars, but the following are commonly used names for different varieties:
Ledebouria socialis ‘Juda’: This variety features variegated light yellow or bright pink striped leaves.
Ledebouria socialis ‘Miner’ (‘Minor’): It is a dwarf variety of silver squill.
Ledebouria socialis ‘Paucifolia’: This variety has shorter leaves compared to other varieties, and its leaves are silvery white with dark green dots.
Ledebouria socialis ‘Violacea’: The leaves of this variety are silver with dark green spots on the upper surface and violet on the underside, which inspired its name.
Pruning
Apart from removing yellow or dead leaves and plant debris, there is minimal pruning required for silver squill.
Propagating Silver Squill
While silver squill can be propagated through seeds, it often has inconsistent germination and slow growth. As a result, most gardeners prefer to propagate it through division of the bulb-clusters. Here’s how it’s done:
- After the flowers have faded, remove the plant from its pot or lift it out of the ground.
- Carefully break the bulbs into individual sections and replant each section in pots or in garden soil with one-third to half of the bulb above the soil line. If using containers, plant no more than three bulbs in a 4- to 6-inch pot.
- Water immediately and keep the soil evenly moist until you see new growth.
Potting and Repotting
Silver squill requires well-draining potting soil or succulent and cactus mix, along with a container that has adequate drain holes. Terra cotta pots are preferable as they allow excess moisture to evaporate.
As the bulbs multiply over time, the plant may become crowded in its pot. When this occurs, it’s time to repot the plant into a larger container or separate some of the bulbs to start new plants, using the propagation through division method described earlier.
Overwintering
In regions where winter temperatures fall below 30 degrees Fahrenheit, it is essential to overwinter the silver squill indoors. Find a spot with bright but indirect light for the plant. Water it sparingly, making sure the soil doesn’t completely dry out between waterings.
Common Pests and Plant Diseases
Though not typically fatal to the plant, silver squill can encounter various pests such as mealybugs, aphids, spider mites, scale, and thrips. Additionally, it may be susceptible to diseases like root rot, leaf spot, botrytis, rust, and powdery mildew. Regular monitoring and appropriate care can help manage these issues and keep the plant healthy.
How to Get Silver Squill to Bloom
One common reason why silver squill may not bloom is that it didn’t experience its necessary dry and slightly cooler dormancy period. To encourage blooming, adjust your watering schedule during the winter months, and ensure that indoor plants are kept in a location a few degrees cooler than in spring and summer. Providing the right dormancy conditions can promote healthy flowering in the plant.
Common Problems with Silver Squill
If you notice curled leaves that are turning brown along the edges, it could be an indication that the plant is receiving too much direct sunlight and insufficient water. Although silver squill requires partial sun, it should not be exposed to harsh, direct sunlight that may cause leaf damage. Finding the right balance of sunlight and watering can help maintain the plant’s health and prevent leaf curling and browning.