PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade; prefers bright, cool spring sunlight and dappled shade in late spring as temperatures rise
Watering
Water thoroughly when the top 2–3 cm of soil is dry; avoid waterlogging to prevent bulb rot
Temperature
Hardy to -10°C during dormancy; dormant in summer heat above 25°C to preserve bulb energy
Characteristics
- Leaf: Narrow, linear, grey-green basal leaves, 10–30 cm long
- Flower: Solitary golden-yellow trumpet-shaped corolla with six outer tepals
- Bulb: Brown papery tunic covering fleshy underground storage bulb
Care Guide
Watering
Keep soil consistently moist during active growth; reduce watering as foliage begins to yellow
Fertilization
Apply balanced bulb fertilizer when shoots first emerge. Use low-nitrogen fertilizer to promote bulb development rather than excessive foliage growth
Eggshell powder topdress：Crush fully dried eggshells into fine powder; sprinkle 1–2 tbsp around bulb bases in early spring to strengthen cell walls and reduce rot riskPruning
- Deadhead spent flowers immediately to redirect energy to bulb growth
- Allow foliage to die back naturally before cutting to ensure bulbs store sufficient energy for next year
- Remove yellowed or damaged foliage promptly to prevent fungal spread
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA: Toxic due to lycorine alkaloids; ingestion may cause vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, tremors
Humans: Ingestion of bulbs or foliage causes mild gastrointestinal upset; skin contact may cause minor irritation
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: Symbolizes rebirth and new beginnings; historically associated with Lent celebrations in Western Europe
Usage: Ornamental garden plant; cut flower for spring floral arrangements
