Plant Needs
Sunlight
Prefers full morning sun with partial afternoon shade in warm climates; tolerates full sun in cool temperate regions
Watering
Water deeply when the top 5 cm of soil is dry; avoid overwatering to prevent bulb rot
Temperature
Hardy to -15°C; avoid prolonged temperatures above 30°C during active growth
Characteristics
- Leaf: Single basal linear leaf, up to 30 cm long, withering before flowering commences
- Flower: Cup-shaped blooms 3–6 cm wide; petals range from white to lavender with purple or yellow nectar guides
- Stem: Slender, erect stem branching near the top to support 1–3 individual flowers
Care Guide
Watering
Keep soil evenly moist during active growth and flowering
Fertilization
Apply diluted balanced fertilizer once at bulb emergence. Use low-nitrogen fertilizer to prioritize bloom production over leafy growth
Eggshell powder topdress:Crush dried eggshells to fine powder; sprinkle 1 tsp per plant in early spring, avoiding direct contact with bulbs to prevent irritationPruning
- Remove spent blooms to conserve bulb energy and prevent unwanted self-seeding
- Cut back withered foliage completely after it turns brown in late summer
- Avoid disturbing dormant bulbs during autumn and winter dormancy periods
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA: Not listed as toxic to cats
Humans: No documented toxicity to humans
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: N/A
Usage: Ornamental rock garden plant; native wildflower for pollinator gardens
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