Ledebouria socialis, Scilla socialis, Scilla violacea

The interesting foliage arches above these, and has a 'leopard' spotting of grey and green. The undersides of the leaves are deep wine-red in cultivar 'Violacea' - the most common form in cultivation, though the green form is also grown by some. The flowers are held in a spike similar to Muscari, but much looser, and are pale greenish-white with some green striping - interesting at close range but not what would normally be called 'showy'. Because of its diminutive size and intriguing form, this plant is often grown as a pot specimen so that it can be more easily viewed at close range.Many variations exist in cultivation: with leopard spotted green leaves, with mottled, discolor leaves, purple on the underside (Scilla socialis 'Violacea'). Easily cultivated in almost any good garden soil, with occasional water applied during the dry months. Perfers some shade in hot summer climates, and should not be waterlogged during rainy winters. New bulbs can be separated from the mother plant in the spring.

Similar plants:

• Scilla peruviana (Portuguese Squill, Giant Scilla)