About
A bulbous perennial, up to 7cm high, with strap-shaped dark green leaves, with a central grey stripe, and rich golden yellow, goblet-shaped flowers in autumn; there are often two flowers on each stem.
About the genus
Sternbergia are bulbous perennials with linear or strap-shaped basal leaves and solitary crocus-like flowers on leafless stems in autumn, late winter or spring
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun
Soil typeChalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH4
Plant details
Plant typeBulbs
HabitClump forming
FoliageDeciduous
HeightUp to 10 cm
Spread0-0.1 metre
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesMediterranean climate plants, City and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden, Gravel garden, Patio and container plants, Rock garden
ToxicityOrnamental bulbs - not to be eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling Pets: Ornamental bulbs - not to be eaten - see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants for further information and useful contact numbers
Care notes
CultivationPlant 15cm deep in late summer or early autumn in an alpine house or bulb frame in full light, in equal parts loam, leafmould and sharp sand, and water moderately when in growth, gradually reducing water as the leaves die back and the bulb becomes dormant; outside, grow in a warm, very sunny position such as in front of a south-facing wall, in very well-drained soil, and leave undisturbed unless they produce fewer flowers
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by division of offsets from large clumps when dormant in summer
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to narcissus bulb flies, large narcissus bulb flies, and narcissus eelworms
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to daffodil viruses