white bluebells

[carinabaylis]

A clump of bluebells in my garden have, over the last 2 or 3 years, gradually turned through mauve and pink to white. This year they are all completely white. Two other clumps have remained classic blue. Why has this happened? The white ones are planted at the foot of a Forsythia bush (the bluebells pre-date the Forsythia) - could this be the reason they have turned white and, if so, why? Any assistance would be appreciated.

[BabsG]

Mine have done the same. They have spread all over the garden so there appears to be no one cause. Funnily enough the original clump is still a true blue.

[dancecaller]

The origional clump are coming true, from bulbs.Like taking a cutting. Seeds are more variable as they are a mix of 2 parents (like people).

Are they Spanish bluebells? A lot of those planted in gardens are. They have flowers all round, and the stems are thicker, while English bluebells are more delicate and have bells just on one side.

Nature conservationists don't like Spanish bluebells because they seed too well and can cross with English ones, and may wipe them out.

[Lonnie]

Fist time, this year we have white Bluebells, seems to be accross the country, only one clump so far, have to keep a watch on them. Don't think they're the Spanish ones though.