Spanish Bluebell

Hyacinthoides hispanica- Coinnle corra Spáinneach

Spanish Bluebell is classified as a low-impact invasive species. It is a member of the Asparagaceae family native to North Africa and Iberian countries. It has escaped cultivation and has become established across Ireland, often found in woodlands, gardens, roadsides, and parks.

Spanish Bluebell

Distribution

(National Biodiversity Data Centre, Ireland, Spanish Bluebell (Hyacinthoides hispanica), image, accessed 09 May 2022)

Species Recorded: 

Spanish bluebell (Hyacinthoides hispanica)

Invasiveness rating:

Classified as a low impact invasive species by the Irish National Biodiversity Centre. Third Schedule listed species under Regulations 49 & 50 in the European Communities (Birds and Natural Habitats) Regulations 2011.

Status:

N/A

Identification: 

  • It can sometimes be mistaken for the native Bluebell, Hyacinthoides non-scripta.
  • Flowers from April to June
  • Spanish Bluebell has large, pale blue or purple flowers located all around the stem.
  • Spanish bluebell has blue anthers, compared to the native Bluebell that has white anthers.
  • Flowers are located on one side of the stem only.
  • The leaves of Spanish Bluebell are long, linear and larger than native Bluebell and grow to around 20-50cm in length.

Reproduction: 

Spanish Bluebell produces seed and can hybridize readily through insect pollination with the common Bluebell. These hybridisations commonly invade areas where the native Bluebell would grow. The seed is highly fertile and so poses a threat to native species. The hybrids are becoming increasingly common. Spanish Bluebell can also spread by underground rhizomes.

Impacts:

Spanish Bluebell is hardier than the native Bluebell and can outcompete the native for light and space. The primary negative impact of the Spanish Bluebell is the hybridization of the native Bluebell, leading to a loss of genes and possibly the eventual loss of the native Bluebell species over time.

Treatment:

  • Chemical: Spanish Bluebell can be treated by foliar spraying with glyphosate with the first treatment occurring in April/May and the second in July/August. Flowerheads should also be cut off to prevent seed formation.
  • Mechanical: Spanish Bluebell can be excavated to completely remove the plant from the location. This involves digging up all plant material using a shovel or excavator. This is then disposed of in a licensed waste facility or buried in a cell on site.

More photos: 

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