PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Bright indirect morning sun or partial direct sun; tolerate light shade but produce fewer blooms in low light
Watering
Water thoroughly when top 5 cm of soil is dry; avoid waterlogging to prevent bulb rot
Temperature
Hardy to -10°C; requires a cold dormant period in winter to support spring leaf growth and summer blooming
Characteristics
- Leaf: Linear strap-shaped green leaves emerge in spring, die back by early summer
- Flower: Fragrant pink-lavender funnel-shaped blooms in umbels of 4–8 flowers on bare, upright stems
- Bulb: Underground tunicate bulb with fleshy storage scales for dormancy
Care Guide
Watering
Water regularly during leaf growth phase; reduce watering as foliage begins to die back
Fertilization
Apply balanced slow-release fertilizer as new leaves emerge. Use fertilizer with moderate nitrogen to support leaf growth without encouraging excessive foliage
Crushed eggshell topdress：Sprinkle finely crushed, dried eggshells around bulbs in spring to boost soil calcium and reduce bulb rot risk; avoid burying shells directly against bulbsPruning
- Remove yellowing foliage in early summer after it fully dies back to prevent fungal growth
- Deadhead spent blooms to redirect energy to bulb storage for next year's flowering
- Thin overcrowded bulbs every 3–4 years in autumn to improve air circulation and blooming performance
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA: Toxic due to lycorine alkaloids; may cause vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, lethargy
Humans: Ingestion of bulbs or foliage causes mild gastrointestinal upset; contact irritation is rare
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: Symbolizes rebirth and unexpected beauty due to its delayed summer bloom after spring foliage fades
Usage: Ornamental garden bulb; long-lasting cut flower for floral arrangements
