Favorite Blue Bulb

Jim McKenney jimmckenney@starpower.net
Tue, 16 Nov 2004 09:27:48 PST
I'm enjoying this topic. My choices for blue flowering bulbs are for the
most part in agreement with those others who live in colder climates. And
as do so many of us in cold climates, I suffer from Tecophilaea envy. 

Just to be different, I'll suggest three blue flowered favorites which no
one has mentioned. In fact, I don't recall two of the genera about to be
mentioned having been mentioned on this list at all during the time I've
been posting. 

First is Delphinium tricorne. This is a local native (actually just a bit
west of us where the soil pH is a bit higher). Yes, this is a geophyte. It
grows from a structure which will remind you of that of Ranunculus ficaria.
Flower color varies, but it can be very good. 


Second, and this one will be a bit of a stretch for some (and all I can say
to them is to remember that the term geophyte does not indicate
relationship): Nymphaea caerulea and some of its hybrids. Yes, these are
waterlilies. And yes, these are geophytes. 

The third choice comes from a genus which for some reason has not come up
for discussion on this list lately or ever. And to the extent that clear,
sparkling, intense blue is the criterion, even Tecophilaea is not secure of
its crown in comparison. What I have in mind is Commelina tuberosa (aka C.
coelestis). This one grown from root clusters which will remind you of
those of a turban ranunculus. And yes, it's little better than a weed, but
a very pretty one.

Jim McKenney
jimmckenney@starpower.net
Montgomery County, Maryland, USA, USDA zone 7, where the only blue bulbs
I've ever seen are those of some hyacinths and squills.   


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