Meadow Gagea (Gagea pratensis)

Meadow Gagea

Gagea pratensis

Delicate star-shaped blooms dot meadows like scattered stardust. Low-growing bulbous perennial; common name: Meadow Gagea.

Full sun
1–2/week
Beginner
🌱

Plant Needs

☀️
Sunlight Full sun to partial shade; performs best in open, unshaded meadow conditions
💧
Watering Keep soil evenly moist during active spring growth; reduce watering sharply after foliage senesces
🌡️
Temperature Hardy to -20°C; tolerates cool spring temperatures, enters summer dormancy in hot conditions
🔍

Characteristics

  • Leaf: Single basal linear grass-like leaf, bright green, up to 20 cm long
  • Flower: Pale yellow star-shaped blooms with 6 tepals, borne in loose umbels
  • Bulb: Small ovoid underground bulb covered in papery protective tunics
🛠️

Care Guide

Watering

Maintain consistent soil moisture during active growth phases

Fertilization

Apply diluted balanced feed once at bulb emergence. Use low-nitrogen feed to support bulb development

Eggshell powder topdress:Grind dried, clean eggshells to a fine powder; sprinkle lightly around emerging foliage in early spring; avoid direct contact with leaves to prevent burning
Pruning
  • Remove spent flower heads to prevent unwanted self-seeding if desired
  • Trim yellowing foliage only after it has fully died back naturally
  • Thin overcrowded bulb clumps every 3–4 years in autumn to improve flowering
⚠️

Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: No known toxic effects to cats (ASPCA unlisted, no documented toxicity)

Humans: No known toxic effects to humans

📖

Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Ornamental wildflower for meadow restoration and native plant gardens