PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade; requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight weekly for optimal spring blooming
Watering
Water thoroughly when the top 2 cm of soil feels dry; avoid waterlogging to prevent bulb rot
Temperature
Cold-hardy to -10°C; requires 12–16 weeks of cool (5–10°C) temperatures to break bulb dormancy for blooming
Characteristics
- Leaf: Narrow, linear dark green basal leaves with upright growth habit
- Flower: Clusters of 2–4 small, fragrant yellow trumpet blooms per stem
- Bulb: Small ovoid underground storage bulb with papery brown tunic
Care Guide
Watering
Keep soil consistently moist during active foliage and blooming phases; reduce watering as foliage yellows
Fertilization
Apply a balanced bulb fertilizer once when shoots emerge. Use a low-nitrogen fertilizer to promote bulb strength rather than excessive foliage growth
Crushed eggshell topdress：Bake eggshells at 180°C for 10 minutes to sterilize, crush into fine powder, and sprinkle 1–2 tsp around bulb bases in early spring; avoid direct contact with young shootsPruning
- Remove spent flower heads to prevent seed formation and redirect energy to bulb growth
- Leave foliage intact until it yellows completely to allow photosynthesis to replenish bulb nutrients
- Divide overcrowded bulb clumps every 3–5 years in late summer after foliage has died back
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA: Toxic; contains lycorine and calcium oxalate crystals, causing vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and tremors in severe cases
Humans: Mild oral irritation and nausea if bulb is ingested; minimal risk from foliage or blooms
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: Symbolizes spring rebirth and new beginnings in Western floral traditions
Usage: Dwarf border edging, rock garden planting, container displays, and cut flower arrangements
