Description
Sternbergia – Autumn Daffodil – Autumn Crocus –
There are about 8 bulbous perennials in this genus. They are found naturally occurring on stony hillsides, in fields, and in sparse scrub or pine woodland from Southern Europe and Turkey to Central Asia. They are grown for their crocus-like, mainly solitary, funnel or goblet shaped, occasionally narrow tepaled and star like, usually bright yellow flowers, borne on leafless stems. The erect, basal leaves are linear or strap shaped to narrowly lance shaped. Grow in a sunny rock garden or bulb frame, most Sternbergia are intolerant of winter moisture.
Plant bulb 6″ deep in late summer, plant S. candida and S. fischeriana 8″ deep in sharply drained, moderately fertile soil in full sun. Allow large clumps to form, divide only if flowering is impaired.
Prone to narcissus viruses, narcissus bulb flies, and nematodes.
S. lutea – Winter Daffodil – This bulbous perennial from the Mediterranean region grows to 6″ tall. It bears goblet shaped, buttercup yellow flowers, 1 ½” across, borne singly on 6″ stems in autumn, with the narrowly lance shaped, deep green leaves, to 12″ long.
Zones 7-9
