Winter daffodil(Sternbergia lutea)

Winter daffodil (Sternbergia lutea)

Also known as: Common sternbergia, Yellow autumn crocus

The plant you're referring to is the Winter Daffodil, or Sternbergia lutea. This perennial grows from a bulb and is known for its resilience against drought, deer, and rabbits. It features large, waxy golden flowers that bloom in fall, with goblet-shaped blossoms. It thrives in full sun and requires fertile, well-drained soil.

Attributes of Winter daffodil

Lifespan
Perennial
Plant Type
Herb
Plant Height
15 cm
Spread
8 cm
Leaf Color
Green
Flower Size
2.5 cm to 5 cm
Flower Color
Yellow

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Images of Winter daffodil

Winter daffodil(Sternbergia lutea)
Winter daffodil(Sternbergia lutea)
Winter daffodil(Sternbergia lutea)
Winter daffodil(Sternbergia lutea)

Quickly Identify Winter daffodil

1
Sternbergia lutea can be identified by its bright yellow flowers that resemble crocuses, its strap-like, dark green leaves that appear in autumn and persist through winter, and its preference for well-drained, sunny locations.

Scientific Classification of Winter daffodil

Phylum
Vascular plants
Class
Monocotyledons
Order
Asparagales
Family
Amaryllis
Genus
Winter daffodils
Species
Winter daffodil

Planting and Growing of Winter daffodil

Care Difficulty
Easy
Watering Schedule
Every 2 days
Sunlight Requirements
Full sun
Sunshine Duration
6-12 hours
Ideal Temperature
60-70℉
Soil Type
Potting Mix, Peat Mix
Soil pH
6.5-7.5
Fertilizer Type
Balanced
Pruning Season
Spring, Summer
Pruning Area
Branches, Leaves
Pruning Frequency
2 times a year
Repotting Season
Spring
Pot Type
Plastic, Ceramic

water icon How to Water Winter daffodil?

The Sternbergia lutea, a resilient bulbous plant, thrives on moderate watering. Aim to give about 250 milliliters per session. The goal is to moisten the soil thoroughly but ensure it dries between sessions.
What are the symptoms of an underwatered Winter daffodil? ›
What should I do if my Winter daffodil is not getting enough water? ›
What are the symptoms of an overwatered Winter daffodil? ›
How to save an overwatered Winter daffodil? ›

sunlight icon What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Winter daffodil?

Sunlight Requirements: Full sun, Partial sun
Duration of light: 4 to 6 hours
Sternbergia lutea thrives best with half-day to full sun exposure. Proper lighting aids in producing vibrant blooms and ensures healthy, lush foliage.
What is the best light for Sternbergia lutea? ›
How can Sternbergia lutea receive optimal sunlight? ›
What benefits will Sternbergia lutea gain from ideal lighting? ›
More About Sunlight Requirements Techniques→

temperature icon What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Winter daffodil?

Ideal Temperature: 60 ~ 70℉
The ideal temperature range for cultivating Sternbergia lutea lies between 60°F to 70°F. This range provides optimal conditions for its growth, ensuring that the plant can undergo photosynthesis efficiently and maintain a healthy metabolic rate. When kept within this temperature range, Sternbergia lutea is likely to exhibit robust growth, vibrant flowers, and an overall thriving condition.

soil icon What Soil is Best for Winter daffodil?

Soil type: Loam, Calcareous soil
Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5
Sternbergia lutea thrives in well-drained soil. Poor drainage can lead to root rot, which is detrimental to its growth. Well-drained soil ensures that water doesn't accumulate, allowing roots to breathe and absorb nutrients efficiently. This plant prospers in nutrient-rich soil that can provide all the necessary components for growth. Organic matter helps improve soil structure and fertility, ensuring the plant receives adequate nutrients for vibrant blooms. While the soil should drain well, it should also retain enough moisture to sustain the plant. A balance between drainage and moisture retention helps prevent stress, ensuring the plant remains lush and healthy.

fertilize icon How to Fertilize Winter daffodil?

Fertilizer type: Balanced
For Sternbergia lutea, the fertilizer amount should be moderate. During the growing season, apply a balanced liquid fertilizer at half-strength to avoid over-fertilization. A teaspoon of liquid fertilizer diluted in a gallon of water usually works well.

prune icon How to Prune Winter daffodil?

Pruning Time: Spring, Autumn
Start by inspecting the plant and removing any dead or yellowing foliage. This cleanup not only improves the plant's appearance but also reduces the likelihood of any disease. Cut back unwanted leaves at the base where they meet the bulb. If the plant looks unruly, lightly shape it by removing overgrown or uneven areas. This helps in maintaining a pleasing appearance and prevents the plant from becoming too leggy. After pruning, make sure the plant returns to its site with optimal growing conditions. Ensure it gets enough sun and protected from extreme conditions. Water appropriately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings for optimal health. More About Pruning Techniques→

propagate icon How to Propagate Winter daffodil plant?

Propagate Time: Late summer, Early autumn
1
Carefully dig up the Sternbergia lutea bulbs from their current location once the foliage has died back. Avoid damaging the bulbs during this process.
2
Separate the bulbs by gently pulling them apart at the natural division points. Each segment should have a healthy portion of the bulb to ensure successful propagation.
3
Replant the divided bulbs in a suitable location with well-draining soil, placing them at a similar depth and spacing as in their original setting.
More About Propagating Techniques→

repot icon How to Repot Winter daffodil plant?

Repotting frequency: Every 2-3 years
1
Repot Sternbergia lutea when the bulbs outgrow the pot or show signs of overcrowding. This typically coincides with spring and autumn when the plant is relatively dormant. If you notice stunted growth or reduced flowering, it's time to consider repotting to refresh the soil and provide more space.
2
Select a pot with ample drainage as Sternbergia lutea thrives in well-draining conditions. The pot should be slightly larger than the last to accommodate new bulb growth. Opting for terracotta can prevent waterlogging and ensure aeration, which promotes healthy root development.
3
Choose a well-draining sandy loam soil, enriched with organic matter. This soil mix mimics the plant’s native Mediterranean habitat, ensuring adequate drainage and preventing root rot. Organic components will gradually supply nutrients, supporting the plant during the growing season.

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