Winter Daffodil (Sternbergia lutea)

Winter Daffodil: Autumn's Golden Goblets

The Winter Daffodil (Sternbergia lutea), also called Fall Crocus or Lily-of-the-Field, is a charming bulbous perennial that blooms in autumn, producing bright yellow, goblet-shaped flowers on short stems before the foliage appears. The flowers resemble large crocuses but have six stamens (crocus has three). The narrow, glossy green leaves emerge after flowering and persist through winter into spring.

Growing Conditions

Plant bulbs in late summer or early autumn in well-drained soil, full sun to light shade. It thrives in Mediterranean climates with dry summers and winter rain. Excellent for rock gardens, gravel beds, or under deciduous shrubs. The foliage is deer-resistant. Hardy in USDA zones 6-9 with good drainage.

Taxonomy

• Family: Amaryllidaceae
• Genus: Sternbergia
• Species: lutea