PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Requires full sun exposure; tolerant of coastal salt spray and dry conditions
Watering
Water deeply during active growth; allow soil to dry completely between waterings to prevent bulb rot
Temperature
Hardy to -5°C; prefers warm summer temperatures for flowering, tolerates mild winter frost
Characteristics
- Leaf: Linear, fleshy grey-green basal leaves, up to 50 cm long
- Flower: Fragrant white star-shaped blooms with a cup-shaped corona, borne in umbels of 5–10 flowers
- Bulb: Underground tunicate bulb, up to 10 cm in diameter
Care Guide
Watering
Keep soil slightly moist during active foliage and flower growth
Fertilization
Diluted balanced liquid feed once monthly. Use low-nitrogen feed to promote bulb health rather than excessive foliage growth
Eggshell powder topdress：Sprinkle finely ground, dried eggshells around bulb bases in early spring; avoid direct contact with foliage to prevent burningPruning
- Remove spent flower stalks after blooming to direct energy to bulb development
- Trim yellowing foliage in late autumn once dormancy begins
- Thin overcrowded bulbs every 3–4 years in early spring to maintain clump vigor
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA-listed toxic; contains lycorine, leading to gastrointestinal and neurological symptoms
Humans: Contains lycorine alkaloids; ingestion causes gastrointestinal distress and potential systemic effects
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: Associated with coastal resilience and Mediterranean coastal folklore
Usage: Ornamental plant for coastal rockeries, dune restoration, and container displays
