PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade; requires direct sunlight for consistent, vibrant flowering
Watering
Keep soil evenly moist during growth and bloom; avoid waterlogging corms to prevent rot
Temperature
Hardy to -15°C; requires 12–16 weeks of cold stratification to trigger spring flowering
Characteristics
- Leaf: Narrow, grass-like basal leaves with a central white stripe, emerging alongside or after flowers
- Flower: Cup-shaped blooms in purple, white, or pale yellow; six tepals with bright orange stamens
- Bulb: Small, corm-like underground storage structure with papery tunic
Care Guide
Watering
Reduce watering as foliage yellows and the plant enters summer dormancy
Fertilization
Apply balanced, diluted fertilizer when foliage first emerges. Use low-nitrogen fertilizer to support corm development and bloom production
Eggshell powder topdress：Crush dried eggshells into fine powder; sprinkle 1 tsp per corm at planting time to improve soil drainage and calcium contentPruning
- Allow foliage to die back naturally to transfer nutrients to the corm for next year’s bloom
- Remove spent flower heads to prevent seed formation and conserve corm energy
- Thin overcrowded corms every 3–4 years in late summer to maintain planting vigor
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA-verified non-toxic to cats; no reported toxicity
Humans: Non-toxic to humans; no known adverse effects from ingestion or contact
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: Symbolizes hope and new beginnings; associated with early spring renewal
Usage: Ornamental garden plant, cut flower arrangements, and indoor forced bloom displays
