How to choose the best wildflower bulbs
Did you know that certain crocus, snowdrops and aconite are native wildflowers? These little gems push up through wintery soil to flower early in the year and provide food for pollinators when they need it most. They’re a wonderful sign that spring is on the way! Read through our FAQs and narrow down which native bulbs to plant in your containers, borders and window boxes for the years to come.
Which wildflower bulbs thrive in shade?
Woodland natives like galanathus nivalis, commonly called snowdrops, are well-suited to shady conditions. These beauties thrive in the wild on snowy woodland banks. The Latin name literally translates to ‘milk flower of the snow’. Plant your snowdrop bulbs en masse for a carpet of white between January and March. Pair with anemone bulbs like anemone nemorosa to extend the white theme into April, or trillium erectum for a deep purple contrast.
Which wildflower bulbs bloom in summer?
Erythronium californicum 'White Beauty' blooms in early summer. The upswept, creamy white flowers appear in their masses during May, delicately dangling from tall stems like parasols. The mottled green foliage is decorated with delightful silver veining. This wildflower is another shade lover and performs well in north-facing sites.
Which wildflower bulbs are best for naturalising?
Bluebell bulbs are superb wildflowers for naturalising. The nodding blue racemes bear blue tubular flowers that cover grassy banks throughout the English countryside in spring. Scatter these bulbs by hand before planting, to make their placement look more natural. Snowdrops and crocuses are also great spreaders. Find out how to naturalise your chosen wildflower bulbs in our helpful article.
Best wildflower bulbs for cut flowers
In our opinion, the best wildflower bulbs for cut flowers are delicate native tulips. Tulip sylvestris bears bright yellow pointed petals that nod gently on tall stems. The blooms appear in spring and will spread merrily through beds and borders.
