PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Requires full sun to partial shade; bright, direct sunlight supports optimal flowering and bulb health.
Watering
Water thoroughly when the top 2–3 cm of soil is dry; avoid overwatering to prevent bulb rot.
Temperature
Tolerates mild frost down to 5°C; prefers warm summer temperatures (20–28°C) to trigger blooming.
Characteristics
- Leaf: Linear, strap-shaped green leaves emerge after flowering, reaching 0.5–0.8 m long.
- Flower: Umbel of 4–12 funnel-shaped pink to white fragrant blooms on a bare, thick stem.
- Bulb: Large, fleshy underground bulb with a papery brown protective tunic.
Care Guide
Watering
Keep soil consistently moist during leaf growth phase
Fertilization
Apply diluted balanced fertilizer once monthly. Use low-nitrogen fertilizer to encourage bulb development rather than excessive leaf growth.
Eggshell powder topdress：Crush dried eggshells into fine powder; sprinkle lightly on soil surface during leaf growth phase; avoid direct contact with the bulb to prevent irritation.Pruning
- Cut spent flower stalks back to 5 cm above the bulb after blooming to redirect energy to bulb growth.
- Trim yellowing leaves once they die back completely in late autumn to maintain a tidy appearance.
- Remove damaged or rotting bulb tissue during repotting in early spring to prevent spread of disease.
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA: Toxic; ingestion leads to vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, lethargy, and potential tremors or cardiac issues in severe cases.
Humans: Contains lycorine alkaloids; ingestion causes mild gastrointestinal upset; sap may irritate sensitive skin.
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: Symbolizes radiance, beauty, and late-summer rebirth in horticultural traditions.
Usage: Ornamental garden plant; cut flower for floral arrangements; container-grown indoor plant.
