FEBRUARY I MARCH 2021 birdsandblooms.com 13
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WORTH THE WAIT Though some early spring blooms fade quickly, they offer
important benefits beyond their temporary beauty. Pollinators rely on the flowers and
pollen during a crucial time of year, and these plants guard against water runoff.
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4 Siberian squill
SCILLA SIBERICA, ZONES 2 TO 8
Brilliant blue blooms adorn this low-growing
squill, which spreads freely to quickly colonize
an area. Due to its invasive tendencies, do not plant
it in or near a natural wooded area.
Why we love it: This incredibly hardy stalwart
is resistant to deer, rabbits and chipmunks. Mix
traditional blue squill with the pure white Alba
for a spectacular show.
1 Reticulated iris
IRIS RETICULATA,
ZONES 5 TO 9
Unlike other irises that
stretch tall toward the
sky, reticulated iris
grows only a few inches
high. When massed
together, the abundant
showy blossoms put
on an amazing early
spring display.
Why we love it:
This deer-resistant bulb
flaunts deep cobalt blue
petals offset by yellow
markings. It makes a
striking statement when
mixed with snowdrops
and crocuses.
2 Bloodroot
SANGUINARIA CANADENSIS,
ZONES 3 TO 8
Always a welcome sign
that warmer weather is
on the way, these large,
short-lasting, white
flowers have yellow
centers. The flowers grow
from a rhizome. Single
stems with one leaf and
flower emerge from the
structure, slowly growing
into a larger clump.
Why we love it:
Bloodroot craves spring
sun and summer shade,
so it’s a perfect pick for a
woodland garden under
deciduous trees.
3 Forsy th ia
FORSYTHIA SPP., ZONES 4 TO 8
Cheery yellow flowers along graceful bending branches
are a welcome match for spring sunshine. Bees and
butterflies zero in on this early nectar source, which
blooms best in full sun but can tolerate some shade.
Why we love it: Ranging from 2-foot dwarf varieties
to those reaching 10 feet high and wide, forsythia
shrubs fit in any garden space.