PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade; prefers morning direct sun and afternoon shade in hot, arid climates to prevent leaf scorch
Watering
Water deeply when the top 5 cm of soil feels dry; avoid waterlogging the bulb to prevent rot
Temperature
Hardy to -10°C during dormancy; protect bulbs from prolonged temperatures above 30°C in summer
Characteristics
- Leaf: Basal rosette of glossy, lanceolate green leaves; smaller alternate leaves along upright stems
- Flower: Fragrant, trumpet-shaped pure white blooms in terminal racemes
- Bulb: Underground fleshy scaly bulb for nutrient storage
Care Guide
Watering
Keep soil consistently moist during active growth; avoid wetting foliage to prevent fungal disease
Fertilization
Apply diluted balanced fertilizer when shoots emerge. Use low-nitrogen fertilizer to promote bulb health rather than excessive foliage growth
Eggshell powder topdressing：Crush dried eggshells into fine powder; sprinkle 1 tablespoon around the bulb base in early spring; avoid direct contact with stems to prevent irritationPruning
- Deadhead spent blooms to redirect energy to bulb growth
- Cut back yellowing foliage to ground level after it dies back in late summer
- Divide overcrowded bulbs every 3–4 years in autumn to maintain plant health
- Remove damaged or diseased leaves promptly to prevent fungal spread
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA: Highly toxic; ingestion of any plant part (bulb, leaf, flower) can cause acute kidney failure within 72 hours
Humans: Ingestion of large amounts may cause mild gastrointestinal upset including nausea and abdominal pain
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: Symbolizes purity and innocence in Christian iconography, often associated with the Virgin Mary
Usage: Ornamental garden plant; fragrant cut flower for floral arrangements
