PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Partial sun to full shade; tolerates dappled winter sunlight and avoids intense hot summer sun
Watering
Keep soil slightly moist during active growth; reduce watering completely after foliage dies back in late spring
Temperature
Hardy to -15°C; requires cold stratification to trigger blooming and enters dormancy during summer heat
Characteristics
- Leaf: Narrow, linear, grey-green basal leaves emerging alongside flowers
- Flower: Drooping, white bell-shaped blooms with subtle inner green tepal markings
- Bulb: Small, ovoid underground storage bulb
Care Guide
Watering
Reduce watering as foliage yellows and dies back to support bulb dormancy
Fertilization
Apply a light, balanced feed when foliage emerges. Use diluted, organic feeds to avoid burning bulb roots
Eggshell powder topdressing：Crush dried eggshells into fine powder; sprinkle lightly around bulb beds in autumn to boost soil calcium content without causing nutrient burnPruning
- Remove yellowed foliage only after it dies back naturally to allow the bulb to store energy for next year’s blooms
- Thin overcrowded bulb clumps every 3–4 years during summer dormancy to improve airflow and blooming
- Trim any damaged or diseased foliage immediately to prevent spread of pathogens
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA: Toxic; ingestion of bulbs or foliage causes vomiting, diarrhea, and lethargy
Humans: Contains lycorine alkaloids; ingestion causes mild gastrointestinal upset
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: Symbolizes hope and the arrival of spring in European folklore
Usage: Ornamental garden bulb for winter and early spring landscape interest
