Autumn Snowflake
acis autumnalis
Also known as: ["Autumn Leucojum"]
Overview
A bulbous perennial with delicate white flowers that bloom in autumn, native to the Mediterranean region.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","seasonal color change"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Asparagales |
| Family: | Amaryllidaceae |
| Genus: | Acis |
| Botanical Name: | Acis autumnalis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, borders, or woodland edges
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"6–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter; avoid heavy clay soils.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring; light pruning can be done as needed year-round.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth if plant becomes leggy.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 4–6 hours daily; tolerates partial shade, especially in hot climates; adjust exposure seasonally to prevent leaf burn.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate new plants gradually to direct sun; avoid intense midday sun; move indoors during extreme heat or cold.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter harsh light; monitor for signs of sunburn.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Allow soil to dry partially between waterings; avoid overwatering, especially in winter; water early in the day to reduce fungal risk.
Soil
well-drained, sandy loam with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix of potting soil, perlite, and compost; avoid compacted soil; check moisture before watering.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates mild fluctuations but avoid prolonged exposure below 50°F (10°C) or above 85°F (29°C).
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from drafts; maintain consistent room temperature for best growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; avoid over-fertilizing to prevent root burn.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of clumps; stem cuttings root easily in warm conditions.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in hormone (optional).
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Early spring before active growth begins; division can be done after flowering.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain 70–75°F (21–24°C) for optimal rooting.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat, perlite, and sand; can also root in water initially.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 3–6 weeks; new growth appears in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Sharp pruners, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium, misting bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain high humidity with a plastic cover; avoid direct sun during rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut stems just above a leaf node or bud; thin out crowded areas to improve light penetration.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or damaged stems to improve airflow and appearance; shape plant to encourage bushier growth.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruners or scissors, disinfectant (e.g., rubbing alcohol).
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune during dormancy; remove dead/diseased parts; shape evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth starts; avoid repotting during flowering or extreme temperatures.
Pot Size
Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one; ensure bottom drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a clean pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; necessary to refresh soil and provide space for growth.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot with drainage; use fresh soil mix; water sparingly post-repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture with finger; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust frequency by season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water thoroughly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; ensure even moisture without waterlogging; allow excess to drain completely before placing back in saucer.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once every 7–10 days during active growth in spring and summer; reduce frequency to every 3–4 weeks in fall and winter to prevent root rot.
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
Chlorosis or browning leaf edges in heat; wilting or root rot in cold; reduced flowering in extreme conditions.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may cause leaf drop or root damage if temperatures drop below 40°F (4°C) for extended periods.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots with bubble wrap; avoid placing near drafty windows or doors.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; soil dries out faster, increasing water stress.
Solution: Provide shade during peak sun; increase humidity with misting or pebble trays; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer correctly; apply to moist soil; stop in dormant periods.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer; cease fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicAcis autumnalis is not considered toxic to cats. There are no known adverse effects from ingestion or contact with this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicAcis autumnalis is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no known adverse effects from ingestion or contact with this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicAcis autumnalis is not considered toxic to humans. There are no known adverse effects from ingestion or contact with this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: When does Acis autumnalis bloom?
A: It blooms in autumn, typically from September to November.
Q: Is Acis autumnalis toxic to pets?
A: It is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: How should Acis autumnalis be cared for?
A: Plant bulbs in well-drained soil in partial shade, water moderately, and avoid overwatering to prevent rotting.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Amaryllidaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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