PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Partial shade to full shade; tolerates dappled winter sunlight, avoid intense direct summer sun to prevent leaf scorch
Watering
Keep soil evenly moist during active growth; reduce watering significantly after foliage dies back to support dormancy
Temperature
Hardy to -15°C; requires cold stratification for bulb germination; avoid prolonged temperatures above 20°C during summer dormancy
Characteristics
- Leaf: Narrow, linear, grey-green basal leaves emerging alongside flowers
- Flower: Drooping, white bell-shaped blooms with distinct inner petal notches
- Bulb: Small, ovoid underground storage bulb with papery tunic
Care Guide
Watering
Reduce watering as foliage yellows and dies back to encourage bulb dormancy
Fertilization
Apply diluted bulb fertilizer once immediately after blooms fade. Use a low-nitrogen, phosphorus-rich fertilizer to support bulb development for the following year
Eggshell powder topdressing：Sprinkle a thin layer of finely crushed eggshell powder around bulbs in early spring to boost soil calcium levels; avoid direct contact with emerging foliagePruning
- Remove yellowed foliage only after it dies back naturally to allow the bulb to store energy for the next growing season
- Thin overcrowded clumps every 3–4 years in late summer to improve air circulation and flowering performance
- Deadhead spent blooms promptly to prevent seed formation and conserve bulb energy
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA: Toxic; ingestion causes vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and lethargy
Humans: Contains lycorine alkaloids; ingestion causes mild gastrointestinal upset including nausea and diarrhea
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: Symbolizes hope and the arrival of spring in Central European folklore
Usage: Ornamental bulb for winter garden interest; naturalized in alpine rockeries
