PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Partial sun to full shade; thrives in dappled woodland light and tolerates cool, low-light conditions
Watering
Keep soil evenly moist during active growth; reduce watering completely after foliage dies back to allow bulb dormancy
Temperature
Hardy to -15°C; requires cold stratification for successful blooming; avoid prolonged temperatures above 20°C during summer dormancy
Characteristics
- Leaf: Linear, grey-green basal leaves, emerging alongside or after flowers
- Flower: Nodding white bell-shaped blooms with green markings on inner tepals
- Bulb: Small, ovoid underground storage bulb
Care Guide
Watering
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged during active growth
Fertilization
Apply diluted bulb fertilizer once when shoots emerge. Use a low-nitrogen, phosphorus-rich fertilizer to support bulb development
Composted eggshell powder：Mix a thin layer of finely ground, fully composted eggshells into the soil at planting time; avoid direct contact with bulb tissue to prevent burnPruning
- Allow foliage to die back naturally to transfer nutrients to the bulb for next year's growth
- Trim spent flower stems after blooming to maintain a tidy garden appearance
- Thin overcrowded clumps every 3–4 years in late summer to improve flowering
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA: Toxic; contains lycorine alkaloids that cause vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and potential tremors
Humans: Ingestion of bulbs or foliage causes nausea, vomiting, and abdominal cramping; severe cases may involve cardiac irregularities
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: Symbolizes hope and the arrival of spring in temperate regions
Usage: Ornamental ground cover for woodland gardens; naturalized in cold temperate landscapes
