Autumn Daffodil Sternbergia lutea
ABOUT
Sternbergia lutea, commonly known as winter daffodil, is a flowering plant with a distinct and attractive appearance. The most striking feature of this plant are its bright, sunshine-yellow flowers that resemble those of the true daffodils, though they belong to a different family. These goblet-shaped blooms emerge in the late summer to autumn period, providing a splash of color when many other plants are beginning to fade. The flowers usually appear before the leaves or just as the foliage begins to grow. Each flower stands atop a single, leafless stalk that arises straight from the ground. After the flowers have had their moment, the plant produces strappy, dark green leaves that are somewhat fleshy, resembling those of the daffodil, which last through the winter months. Beneath the ground, winter daffodil develops from bulbs, which have a protective tunic that helps it survive through periods of dormancy. When in bloom, the winter daffodil creates a lovely display that can brighten up rock gardens, borders, and naturalistic plantings, bringing early fall color and warmth to the landscape with its cheerful blossoms.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Amaryllidaceae.
Synonyms
Winter Daffodil, Autumn Daffodil, Fall Daffodil, Lily of the Field, Yellow Autumn Crocus.
Common names
Amaryllis lutea, Oporanthus luteus, Sternbergia lutea var. sicula.
ToxicityTo humans
Winter Daffodil is not commonly known to be toxic to humans. However, as with many plants, it is possible that some individuals might experience an allergic reaction or gastrointestinal upset if any part of the plant is ingested without proper knowledge or reason. It is always best to avoid eating parts of ornamental plants due to potential unknown toxicities. In general, if you suspect poisoning from any plant, seek medical attention promptly.
To pets
Winter Daffodil may not be widely reported as toxic to pets, but caution is advised as plants in the Amaryllidaceae family can have compounds that are harmful if ingested. It is always best to prevent pets from eating ornamental plants. If a pet does ingest part of the plant, and you notice symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, or lethargy, it is important to contact a veterinarian as soon as possible.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Yellow
Height
6 inches (15 cm)
Spread
4 inches (10 cm)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
7
Native area
Mediterranean
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: Sternbergia lutea, commonly known as winter daffodil, adds vibrant yellow blooms to gardens during late summer and autumn, enhancing visual interest.
- Ease of Care: The winter daffodil is relatively low maintenance, requiring minimal care once established and thus suitable for gardeners of all skill levels.
- Drought Tolerance: Adapted to survive with limited water, winter daffodils are ideal for xeriscaping and drought-prone areas where water conservation is necessary.
- Perennial Growth: As a perennial, the winter daffodil reliably returns year after year, providing long-term value and reducing the need for annual replanting.
- Naturalizing: The winter daffodil has the ability to naturalize, meaning it can spread and propagate on its own, creating larger and more impressive displays over time.
- Pollinator Attraction: While in bloom, the flowers attract bees and other pollinators, supporting biodiversity and the health of local ecosystems.
- Deer Resistance: Winter daffodils are generally resistant to deer, making them suitable for gardens where deer predation is a concern.
- Seasonal Interest: Blooming when few other plants do, the winter daffodil provides interest during the transition from summer to fall and can bridge gaps in garden color schemes.
- Container Gardening: Suitable for growing in pots, winter daffodils offer flexibility in garden design and can enhance patios, balconies, or small urban spaces.
Medical Properties- This plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Sternbergia lutea, commonly known as Autumn Crocus, can be used as a natural fabric dye, offering a range of yellow hues derived from its bright yellow flowers.
- In landscape design, Autumn Crocus bulbs can be planted amongst grasses or paving stones to create a surprise bloom in early autumn, providing an unexpected splash of color in garden pathways or lawns.
- The plant can serve as a climate indicator; the timing of its bloom may help gardeners and farmers to anticipate seasonal changes and prepare for planting other species.
- Autumn Crocus can be integrated into educational programs, particularly in botany and ecology, to demonstrate the life cycle of perennial plants and their adaptations to the Mediterranean climate.
- Due to its hardy nature, the Autumn Crocus can be used in xeriscaping, helping to reduce the need for watering in dry, arid regions.
- The visual appeal of the Autumn Crocus can be utilized in art, such as botanical illustration or photography, highlighting the beauty of seasonal flora.
- Its ability to naturalize and spread makes the Autumn Crocus a suitable candidate for rewilding projects aimed at restoring natural landscapes and habitats.
- The plant can be used in cultural and religious ceremonies where yellow flowers may have symbolic meaning, serving as ornamentation during festivals or events in certain cultures.
- Autumn Crocus can be studied for its resilience to plant diseases and pests, contributing to research in sustainable agriculture and horticulture practices.
- The seasonal timing and distinctive color of Autumn Crocus can contribute to eco-tourism, attracting visitors to gardens and natural spaces where the plants are a highlight during their flowering period.
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- Resilience: Sternbergia lutea, commonly known as winter daffodil, often blooms in late summer or early autumn, usually following a period of dormancy in the summer. This characteristic is seen as a symbol of the ability to endure difficult conditions and to emerge with beauty and grace.
- Hope and Renewal: The winter daffodil's bright yellow flowers appear at a time when most other plants are starting to fade away or prepare for winter, signifying the promise of new beginnings and the hope for a future after challenging times.
- Prosperity: The golden hue of the winter daffodil is commonly associated with wealth and prosperity, making it a symbol of good fortune and economic success.
- Joy and Happiness: The cheerful color and the surprise appearance of its blooms when not much else is in flower can symbolize joy, happiness, and the simple pleasures in life.
WaterSternbergia lutea, commonly known as winter daffodil, requires moderate watering during active growth in the fall, with a reduction in watering after the flowers and leaves die back. During the growing season, provide about one inch of water weekly, ensuring the soil stays evenly moist but not waterlogged. Once the plant enters dormancy, cut back on watering significantly, providing just enough to prevent the soil from becoming completely dry, which might amount to a few ounces every couple of weeks depending on climate conditions.
LightWinter daffodil thrives best in full sun to partial shade. Place it in a spot where it can receive at least four to six hours of direct sunlight daily. This plant is adaptable but will bloom most prolifically when it has access to plenty of bright light.
TemperatureThe winter daffodil prefers a mild climate and can tolerate temperatures ranging from roughly 50 to 77 degrees Fahrenheit. It can survive minimum temperatures down to about 20 degrees Fahrenheit but may need protection from harsher frosts. Ideally, keep it in conditions that emulate its natural Mediterranean habitat, with warm summers and cool but not freezing winters.
PruningPruning winter daffodil is generally not necessary, as the plant has a natural growth habit that does not require shaping. However, after flowering, you can remove the spent blooms to keep the plant looking tidy. Do this once the flowers have faded, typically in late fall or early winter.
CleaningAs needed
SoilWinter Daffodil prefers well-draining, rich, sandy or loamy soil with added organic matter. Aim for a soil pH around 6.0 to 7.5. A mixture of two parts loam, one part sand or perlite, and one part compost or peat would be ideal.
RepottingWinter Daffodil should be repotted every 2 to 3 years. It's best to repot after the flowering season when the plant is dormant to minimize stress and encourage vigorous growth in the next cycle.
Humidity & MistingThe Winter Daffodil thrives in average to dry humidity conditions. Excessive humidity can lead to fungal problems, so aim for a relatively dry atmosphere, especially when the plant is dormant.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Ensure bright light and good airflow for Winter Daffodil indoors.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun to partial shade in well-draining soil.
Hardiness zone
7-9 USDA
Life cycleSternbergia lutea, commonly known as the winter daffodil, begins its life cycle when conditions are favorable, typically emerging from an underground bulb in autumn. The plant produces strap-shaped, green leaves and bright yellow, cup-shaped flowers, which resemble daffodils, typically blooming from September to November. After pollination, which often involves insects, the flowers develop into capsules containing seeds. Once the flowering is complete and seeds are set, the above-ground foliage dies back and the plant enters a period of dormancy during winter and the hot summer months. During dormancy, the bulb survives underground, retaining energy for the next growth cycle. In the next favorable season, usually autumn with the arrival of cooler temperatures and rains, the cycle repeats with new growth emerging from the bulb.
PropogationPropogation time
Autumn
Sternbergia lutea, commonly known as winter daffodil, is typically propagated by dividing the bulbs. The ideal time to propagate is when the plant is dormant, which is typically in late summer or early fall. To propagate, you gently dig up the clumps of bulbs and separate them by hand, being careful not to damage the bulbs. Each bulb can be replanted immediately at a depth of about 3 to 4 inches (8 to 10 centimeters) and spaced approximately 6 inches (15 centimeters) apart in well-draining soil with good exposure to sunlight. Once planted, the bulbs will need minimal maintenance, and with proper care, they will begin to grow and can produce flowers as early as the following growing season.
