Winter Daffodil Sternbergia lutea Angustifolia Group
ABOUT
Sternbergia lutea Angustifolia Group, commonly known as winter daffodil, is a bulbous perennial that boasts a vibrant display. It's particularly notable for its striking, golden-yellow flowers that resemble those of the true daffodil. These blooms consist of six petals arranged in a star shape around a central, darker yellow cup. In contrast to other varieties, the foliage is narrow and strap-shaped with a lush, green coloration that complements the bright flowers. The leaves tend to emerge either alongside the flowers or shortly after the blooming period. The plant produces an upright and orderly appearance, contributing to its overall attractiveness. The winter daffodil is appreciated for its cheery blossoms that often appear when few other plants are in flower, heralding the end of summer and the onset of autumn.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Amaryllidaceae
Synonyms
Winter Daffodil, Autumn Daffodil, Lily-of-the-Field, Yellow Autumn Crocus, Fall Daffodil
Common names
Sternbergia lutea var. sicula, Sternbergia sicula.
ToxicityTo humans
Sternbergia lutea, commonly known as Winter Daffodil, is not widely known for its toxicity to humans. While it is always important to be cautious when dealing with plants and to avoid ingesting parts of plants that are not considered edible, there is limited information on the toxicity of Winter Daffodil to humans. However, as with many plants, it is possible that some individuals may experience an allergic reaction or sensitivity if they come into contact with its sap or ingest parts of the plant. If ingestion does occur, it is advisable to monitor for any unusual symptoms and seek medical attention if any adverse reactions are observed.
To pets
Sternbergia lutea, commonly known as Winter Daffodil, like many plants, may present a risk to pets if ingested. Although specific toxicity information for pets regarding the Winter Daffodil is not extensively documented, caution is advised as plants in the Amaryllidaceae family can contain compounds that are toxic to animals. Symptoms of poisoning in pets could include gastrointestinal upset, vomiting, diarrhea, excessive drooling, or more severe effects like tremors or cardiac issues depending on the quantity ingested and the plant's specific toxicity. If you suspect your pet has ingested this or any plant, you should contact your veterinarian immediately.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Yellow
Height
6 inches (15 cm)
Spread
3 inches (7.5 cm)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
7
Native area
Mediterranean
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Value: Sternbergia lutea, commonly known as Winter Daffodil, has vibrant yellow flowers that add aesthetic appeal to gardens and landscapes.
- Drought Tolerance: The Winter Daffodil is well-suited for xeriscaping due to its ability to withstand dry conditions once established.
- Low Maintenance: It requires minimal care, making it an excellent choice for gardeners seeking low-maintenance plants.
- Seasonal Interest: Blooming in the autumn, it provides a splash of color at a time when many other plants are starting to decline.
- Attracts Pollinators: The flowers attract bees and other pollinators, which are essential for the health of the ecosystem.
- Naturalizing: Winter Daffodil can spread over time, forming natural-looking drifts that can enhance the landscape.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Sternbergia lutea Angustifolia Group, commonly known as Autumn Daffodil, can be used in rock gardens for its ability to blend well with natural stone features and tolerate dry conditions once established.
- Autumn Daffodil bulbs can act as a food reserve during harsh winters for some wildlife species seeking nutritional supplements beneath the snow.
- The vibrant yellow flowers of the Autumn Daffodil can serve as a natural dye source for fabrics and crafts, providing a subtle color derived from nature.
- Due to its resilience and low maintenance, Autumn Daffodil is useful for xeriscaping, a landscaping method that reduces or eliminates the need for supplemental water from irrigation.
- In photography and painting, the striking appearance of Autumn Daffodil can be employed as a subject for artistic works, capturing the essence of autumn in botanical form.
- The plant’s ability to flower in the fall can provide a late-season nectar source for pollinators like bees that are still active before winter sets in.
- Autumn Daffodil is sometimes utilized in educational settings as a live example to teach about plant biology and the adaptation of certain species to specific seasonal changes.
- For ecologically-minded gardeners, planting Sternbergia lutea Angustifolia Group can be a method of supporting local biodiversity by offering habitat and resources to a variety of insects.
- Autumn Daffodil can be planted as part of a sequence of blooming plants in a garden, ensuring that there is always color and interest throughout the growing season.
- In rural areas, the bulbs of Sternbergia lutea Angustifolia Group remain relatively resistant to browsing by deer, making them suitable for planting in locations with a prevalent deer population.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Winter Daffodil is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Winter Daffodil is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Renewal and New Beginnings: Sternbergia lutea, commonly known as winter daffodil, often blooms in late winter or early spring, symbolizing the end of one cycle and the beginning of another.
- Hope: Its bright yellow flowers can be a cheerful symbol of hope, representing optimism and the expectation of good things to come.
- Resilience: As a plant that emerges after winter, the winter daffodil is associated with resilience and the ability to overcome challenges and adversity.
WaterThe Autumn Crocus should be watered moderately during its growing season, which is in the fall when it blooms and in the spring when leaves are present. Once established, this plant is quite drought-tolerant and will require less frequent watering. Generally, watering once a week with approximately one gallon of water per square yard is sufficient, though this can be adjusted depending on rainfall and soil conditions. During the summer dormancy, watering should be reduced significantly to mimic the dry Mediterranean climates the plant thrives in naturally. It is essential to ensure that the soil is well-drained to avoid waterlogging, which can lead to bulb rot.
LightThe Autumn Crocus thrives best in full sunshine to partial shade. While it can handle a bit of shade, the ideal spot for this plant would be in an area that receives several hours of direct sunlight each day. Avoid deeply shaded areas, as this can impede flowering and overall plant vigor.
TemperatureThe Autumn Crocus performs well in a wide range of temperatures. It prefers mild to warm conditions, thriving in temperatures between 50°F and 78°F. The plant is capable of withstanding brief periods of temperatures as low as 28°F but should be protected from prolonged exposure to freezing conditions to prevent damage to the bulbs.
PruningPruning is not typically required for the Autumn Crocus, as the plant naturally dies back after flowering and during summer dormancy. Deadheading, the removal of spent flowers, may be done to promote a tidy appearance but is not necessary for the health of the plant. The best time for any cleaning up of dead or yellowing foliage is in late spring when the leaves have fully withered away.
CleaningAs needed
SoilWinter daffodil prefers well-draining soil with a mix of loam and sand; ideal pH is slightly acidic to neutral, ranging from 6.0 to 7.5 for optimal growth.
RepottingWinter daffodils should be repotted every 2-3 years, or when the clumps become overcrowded, to promote healthy growth and flowering.
Humidity & MistingWinter daffodil thrives in average humidity conditions typical of outdoor environments and does not require high humidity levels to grow successfully.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright light, avoid overwatering, and ensure good drainage.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun to partial shade with well-draining soil.
Hardiness zone
7-9 USDA
Life cycleSternbergia lutea Angustifolia Group, commonly known as Winter Daffodil, begins its life cycle with seed germination, which occurs in the fall as temperatures start to cool. After germination, the seedlings develop a small bulb and foliage, but the plant generally does not flower in its first year. The young plants go through a vegetative stage, where they store energy in their bulbs during the winter months. As spring arrives, the Winter Daffodil enters a period of dormancy, during which the foliage dies back and the plant conserves energy in its bulb underground. In the subsequent fall season, the mature bulbs send up a single leaf and flower stalk, producing bright yellow, cup-shaped flowers that bloom even before the foliage fully develops. After flowering, the leaves continue to photosynthesize and replenish the bulb until the next dormancy period.
PropogationPropogation time
Autumn
Sternbergia lutea Angustifolia Group, commonly known as the lily-of-the-field, is commonly propagated through division of bulbs. It is best to divide and replant the bulbs at the end of their dormant period, just before their growing season starts. This period typically falls in late summer to early fall. To propagate, carefully lift the clumps of bulbs and gently separate the offsets from the parent bulbs. These offsets are the smaller bulbs that form around the base of the mother plant. Replant the bulbs immediately at a depth approximately three times the height of the bulb, placing them about 4 inches (10 centimeters) apart to ensure adequate space for growth. Water the newly planted bulbs well to establish them. This method of propagation is favored for its simplicity and effectiveness in increasing the number of plants.
