Sternbergia bulbocodium
colchicum bulbocodium
Also known as: ["Sternbergia bulbocodium","Crocus bulbocodium"]
Overview
A small, early-blooming cormous plant with cup-shaped, bright yellow flowers resembling crocuses, native to Europe and Asia.
Benefits & Perks
["early blooming","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Liliales |
| Family: | Colchicaceae |
| Genus: | Colchicum |
| Botanical Name: | Colchicum bulbocodium |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, woodland edges, or naturalized areas
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–15–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–8"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent bulb rot.
- Soil Type: Sandy, loamy soil with good organic matter content.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed after flowering; no regular schedule required.
- Pruning Intensity: Light; only remove dead or spent parts.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade (4–6 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates more shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to full sun to prevent scorching; in hot regions, provide afternoon shade; adjust placement based on seasonal light intensity.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Morning sun is ideal; avoid harsh midday sun; rotate pots for even growth.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in dormancy
Allow soil to dry between waterings; water deeply but infrequently; avoid waterlogging during dormancy.
Soil
well-drained, humus-rich soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Avoid heavy clay soils; ensure soil dries between waterings; amend with organic matter for fertility.
Temperature
Hardy in USDA zones 3–8; prefers cool temperatures (40–70°F); tolerates frost but requires protection from extreme cold.
Protect from extreme cold with mulch; water early to avoid heat stress; adjust care based on seasonal changes.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth
Fertilize sparingly to avoid bulb burn; apply after flowering for bulb development; stop in late summer.
Propagation
Methods
Division of bulbs; offsets can be separated and replanted.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Dig up clumps carefully.
- Separate offsets.
- Replant at the same depth.
- Water lightly.
Best Time: After flowering in late spring or early summer when bulbs are dormant.
Environment
Cool, shaded environment with moderate humidity; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Medium
Well-draining bulb mix or sandy loam with added perlite.
Hormone
Not required for bulb division.
Timeline
Offsets establish in 1–2 years; flowering may take 2–3 years.
Tools Needed
Garden fork, sharp knife, gloves.
Quick Tips
Replant offsets immediately to prevent drying; ensure each offset has roots; space bulbs appropriately.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip flower stems at the base; allow foliage to die back naturally.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning required; remove spent flower stems to redirect energy to bulb development.
Tools
Hand pruners, scissors.
Checklist
Use clean tools; remove only dead parts; avoid cutting foliage until it yellows.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Late summer or early fall when bulbs are dormant.
Pot Size
Use the same size pot or slightly larger if overcrowding is severe.
Method
Gently lift bulbs; remove old soil; replant at the same depth in fresh, well-draining soil.
Suggestions
Not typically required; bulbs prefer to be undisturbed; repot only if overcrowded or soil is depleted.
Checklist
Use fresh soil mix; ensure drainage; replant at original depth; water lightly.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water early in the day; ensure drainage holes are clear.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the bulb zone; avoid wetting foliage; ensure excess water drains away to prevent rot.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water sparingly during dormancy (summer); increase frequency in fall as growth resumes; reduce again after flowering in spring.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is loose and airy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing or browning foliage in excessive heat; delayed or stunted growth in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Bulbs may rot if soil remains wet and cold; foliage may wilt or die back prematurely.
Solution: Ensure well-draining soil; apply a layer of mulch for insulation; avoid overwatering in winter.
Hot Stress
Bulbs may desiccate if exposed to prolonged heat without adequate moisture; foliage may scorch.
Solution: Provide partial shade during peak heat; water deeply but infrequently; ensure soil remains cool and moist.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with bulb.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, low-nitrogen fertilizer diluted to half strength; apply in early spring as growth begins; avoid fertilizing during dormancy.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCats are also highly susceptible to colchicine poisoning from Colchicum bulbocodium. The plant's toxic components can cause severe gastrointestinal distress, systemic toxicity, and life-threatening complications.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicDogs are highly susceptible to colchicine poisoning from Colchicum bulbocodium. Ingestion can lead to severe gastrointestinal upset, systemic toxicity, and potentially fatal outcomes due to the plant's potent alkaloid content.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicColchicum bulbocodium contains colchicine, a potent alkaloid that interferes with cell division and can cause severe gastrointestinal distress, organ damage, and potentially fatal poisoning. The plant's effects are systemic and can lead to significant physiological disruption.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Colchicum bulbocodium toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is toxic to both dogs and cats.
Q: When does Colchicum bulbocodium bloom?
A: It blooms in early spring, often before its leaves emerge.
Q: How should Colchicum bulbocodium be planted?
A: Plant the corms in autumn, about 4 inches deep in well-drained soil, in a sunny to partially shaded location.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Colchicaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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