12/10/2026
Overview: Drimia maritima (commonly known as sea squill) is a large, perennial bulbous plant belonging to the Aspagaceae family. It is native to the Mediterranean region and is well-known for its striking tall flower spikes that emerge in late summer before the leaves appear.
Flowers & Inflorescence: The plant produces a tall, unbranched flowering stem (raceme) that can reach up to 1.5 to 2 meters in height. The flowers are small, star-shaped, and measure about 1.5 cm across, featuring white tepals with a distinct dark brownish or reddish stripe down the middle. The macro shots show the intricate details of the white petals, the central yellow stamens, and the developing seed capsules.
Bulbs & Leaves: It grows from a very large underground bulb (often weighing up to 1 kg or more). Broad, leathery, dark green leaves emerge in the autumn and last through the spring before withering away prior to the summer dormancy.
Uses & Properties: Historically, the plant has been used in traditional medicine and as a natural rodenticide due to its toxic cardiac glycoside compounds
