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Sea Squill

Urginea maritima
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Urginea maritima (Sea Squill) — botanical photograph
Pl. 05FE — Urginea maritima
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I

Overview

Sea Squill, scientifically known as Urginea maritima, is a bulbous plant native to Algeria, Baleares, Portugal, and Spain. It thrives in full sun and can tolerate both dry and moist conditions, making it adaptable to various soil types, including light (sandy) and medium soils. Hardy from zones 8-11, this plant reaches a height of about 1 meter. Sea Squill is known for its edible bulb, which has been utilized for culinary purposes in its native regions. One distinctive feature of the plant is its ability to grow in diverse environments, making it a versatile addition to gardens or natural landscapes.

Quick answers

What is Sea Squill?

Sea Squill, scientifically known as Urginea maritima, is a bulbous plant native to Algeria, Baleares, Portugal, and Spain. It thrives in full sun and can tolerate both dry and moist conditions, making it adaptable to various soil types, including light (sandy) and medium soils.

Growingconditions · propagation · uses
V

Cultivation

Sea Squill thrives in full sun and prefers well-draining soils that are either light (sandy) or medium. It is drought-tolerant but can also handle moist conditions. The plant grows to a height of 1 meter and is hardy in zones 8-11, making it suitable for temperate regions. Propagate through bulbs, which are the edible parts of the plant. Ensure the soil remains dry during winter dormancy to prevent rot.
Light
Full sun
Water
Dry, Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium
Hardiness
8-11
Mature size
1.0 m tall
For first-time growers

How to grow Sea Squill for the first time

8steps

Start with Sea Squill as a simple, low-maintenance addition to your garden.

  1. 1

    What you'll need

    Bulbs, potting soil, container or garden bed.

  2. 2

    Best time to plant

    Plant in late fall or early spring when the soil is cool and moist.

  3. 3

    Soil and container prep

    Use a well-draining mix with sand for containers. Ensure the garden has good drainage if planting outdoors.

  4. 4

    Sowing or transplanting

    Plant bulbs 10-15 cm deep, pointed end up in the soil.

  5. 5

    First two weeks

    Water sparingly to avoid rot. Keep the area mulched for moisture retention.

  6. 6

    Ongoing care

    Water only when the soil is dry and reduce watering as leaves die back. Fertilize lightly in spring if needed.

  7. 7

    Harvest or pruning

    No harvesting; prune dead foliage to maintain appearance after flowering.

  8. 8

    Common mistakes

    Overwatering, planting too deep, neglecting drainage, and not providing enough sunlight.

VI

Edible & utility

Edible parts:Bulb
Edible uses: The bulb of the Sea Squill is edible and can be prepared in various ways. Typically, it is cooked to ensure safety before consumption. It may also be dried for later use. Raw consumption is not recommended due to potential toxicity.
Contextrange · companions · related
VII

Distribution

4 native · 0 introduced
Distribution across2 continents· 4 native
Europe2 regions
native (2)PortugalSpain
Africa1 region
native (1)Algeria
IX

Specimen gallery

1 image
Urginea maritima (Sea Squill) — botanical photograph
Sea Squill (Urginea maritima)
XI

Explore further

Companion planting
Growing zone
XII

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