PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Full morning sun with dappled afternoon shade in hot climates; avoid prolonged direct midday sun to prevent leaf scorch
Watering
Maintain consistently moist, well-drained soil; avoid waterlogging to prevent bulb rot, especially during dormancy
Temperature
Hardy to -10°C during bulb dormancy; protect from temperatures above 30°C during active growth to avoid heat stress
Characteristics
- Leaf: Alternate, lanceolate, glossy green leaves arranged in whorls along the upper stem
- Flower: Large, fragrant trumpet-shaped white blooms with golden central rays and crimson basal spots
- Bulb: Underground fleshy scale-covered bulb for nutrient storage and dormancy
Care Guide
Watering
Keep soil evenly moist during active growth; apply mulch to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature
Fertilization
Apply balanced slow-release fertilizer when shoots reach 10 cm tall. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers, which can promote leaf growth over flowering
Eggshell powder tea：Crush dried, rinsed eggshells into a fine powder, steep in water for 24 hours, dilute 1:10 with water, and apply as a root drench; do not apply to acidic soil to avoid pH imbalancePruning
- Deadhead spent blooms promptly to prevent seed formation and redirect energy to bulb development
- Cut back foliage only after it turns completely yellow and dies back naturally, as green foliage nourishes the bulb
- Remove damaged or diseased stems at ground level to reduce the risk of fungal infection
- Thin overcrowded bulbs every 3–4 years in autumn to improve air circulation and flowering
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA: Highly toxic; ingestion of any plant part (bulb, leaf, flower) can cause acute renal failure in cats
Humans: Mild gastrointestinal upset if large quantities of bulb flesh are ingested; no severe systemic toxicity
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: In Japan, it is a symbol of purity and imperial elegance, often used in traditional tea ceremonies and floral arrangements
Usage: Ornamental garden plant, premium cut flower for bouquets and floral displays
