Hi Barbara, I've been growing Scilla peruviana outside since 1995 over the course of some quite cold winters with no particular efforts at protection. I believe it's correctly identified, with a flower spike of that distinctive shape coming in May. Having said that, based on my experiences, I wouldn't particularly encourage others in my sort of zone 5 climate to rush out and get it -- it doesn't do anything except survive and briefly flower. However... responding to all the enthusiasm that has been expressed, it might be time to give it some encouragement, such as a high, dry, hot location next to the south-facing foundation. Jim Jones Lexington, MA