Amaryllidaceae
Winter Daffodil: Full Sun Plant
Sternbergia lutea
Plant bulbs in full sun in very well-drained, stony soil, and keep them dry during summer dormancy. It is drought-tolerant once established and its primary threat is excessive winter moisture.
Every 14 days
Direct sun
-15° - 35°C
30% - 50%
Categories
What is Winter Daffodil?
Winter Daffodil (Sternbergia lutea) is a easy-care plant from the Amaryllidaceae family. Sternbergia lutea is a small Mediterranean bulbous plant in the Amaryllidaceae family, cultivated for its bright yellow cup-shaped flowers that bloom in autumn, surrounded by dark green strap-like leaves. Hardy and low-maintenance, it naturalizes over time in rock gardens and sunny, well-drained bor...
Winter Daffodil grows up to 15cm, spread of 10cm, watering every 14 days, -15°C – 35°C, 30–50% humidity. It is not suitable for indoor environments and not safe for pets.
Unlike many tropical plants, Winter Daffodil tolerates watering mistakes. Best for beginners. Without precautions, ingestion can cause irritation in pets. Keep out of reach of cats and dogs.
How to Care for Winter Daffodil?
TLDR: Winter Daffodil needs Direct sun, watering every 14 days, and temperatures between -15-35°C with 30-50% humidity.
How Often Should You Water Winter Daffodil?
Water sparingly during growth and flowering, then keep the soil dry during summer dormancy to prevent bulb rot.
How Much Light Does Winter Daffodil Need?
Full sun is essential: winter sun is required for good flowering; avoid shaded locations.
What Is the Best Soil for Winter Daffodil?
Poor, stony, and perfectly drained soil, preferably alkaline; never waterlogged in winter.
What Pot Should You Use for Winter Daffodil?
A deep, well-drained terracotta pot is suitable for the bulbs; keep them crowded to encourage flowering.
What Is Winter Daffodil and Where Does It Come From?
Sternbergia lutea is a small Mediterranean bulbous plant in the Amaryllidaceae family, cultivated for its bright yellow cup-shaped flowers that bloom in autumn, surrounded by dark green strap-like leaves. Hardy and low-maintenance, it naturalizes over time in rock gardens and sunny, well-drained borders.
How Big Does Winter Daffodil Grow?
TLDR: Winter Daffodil can reach up to 15cm tall with Slow growth rate.
Max height
15cm
Spread
10cm
Growth rate
Slow
Foliage
Deciduous
Warning: Toxic Plant
This plant can be toxic if ingested. Keep out of reach of:
Plant Uses
Ornamental
Great for decoration
Is your plant showing symptoms?
Click on the symptom to discover possible causes:
What Diseases Commonly Affect Winter Daffodil?
TLDR: Winter Daffodil is susceptible to 3 known diseases. Monitor regularly for early detection.
Root Rot
Root rot is a serious fungal disease that affects the root system of plants, causing them to decay and die. It is primarily caused by overwatering, poor drainage, or soil-borne fungi such as Pythium, Phytophthora, Rhizoctonia, and Fusarium. The disease thrives in waterlogged conditions where roots are deprived of oxygen, making them susceptible to fungal infection.
Gray Mold (Botrytis Blight)
Gray mold, caused by the fungus Botrytis cinerea, is a widespread necrotrophic pathogen affecting over 1,400 plant species. It thrives in cool, humid conditions and attacks weakened or aging plant tissues, causing soft rot and characteristic gray fuzzy growth.
Slugs and Snails
Slugs and snails are mollusks that feed on plant tissue, causing irregular holes in leaves and damage to young seedlings. They are most active at night and in moist conditions, leaving characteristic silvery slime trails. These pests can quickly devastate gardens, especially during wet seasons.
Meaning & Symbolism
A symbol of renewal and resilience, as it blooms in autumn when most other plants are declining.
Compare with similar plants
| Attribute | Difficulty | Light | Watering | Pet Safe |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Field Maple | Easy | Bright indirect | 14d | ✓ |
| Silver Birch | Easy | Direct sun | 14d | ✓ |
| Common Blanketflower | Easy | Direct sun | 10d | ✓ |
| Cushion Bush | Easy | Direct sun | 14d | ✓ |
