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gagea lacaitae
Also known as: []
Overview
A bulbous perennial plant belonging to the lily family, native to certain regions of Europe and Asia.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Liliales |
| Family: | Liliaceae |
| Genus: | Gagea |
| Botanical Name: | Gagea lacaitae |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, alpine troughs, or sunny borders
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"7–10"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent bulb rot.
- Soil Type: Well-drained, sandy loam with added organic matter; bulb-specific mix is ideal.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: After flowering each year.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 4–6 hours daily; can tolerate partial shade, especially in warmer months.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun if needed; protect from intense midday sun to prevent scorching; adjust light exposure based on seasonal changes.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Avoid direct afternoon sun; provide dappled light in summer; rotate pot for even growth.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in dormancy
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid waterlogging, especially during dormancy.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a bulb mix; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Cool to moderate temperatures (50–70°F or 10–21°C); prefers cooler conditions during dormancy.
Protect from frost; avoid placing near heat sources; maintain consistent temperatures during active growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize only when actively growing; dilute fertilizer to prevent root burn; stop feeding in late summer.
Propagation
Methods
Division of bulbs; occasionally by seed.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Carefully lift parent bulb.
- Separate small bulb offsets.
- Replant at the same depth as the parent.
- Water lightly.
Best Time: After flowering, when bulbs are dormant (late spring to early summer).
Environment
Cool, shaded environment with moderate humidity; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Medium
Well-drained bulb mix or sandy loam with added perlite.
Hormone
Not necessary for bulb division; optional for seed propagation.
Timeline
Bulbs can be planted immediately; seeds may take 1–2 years to germinate and establish.
Tools Needed
Garden trowel, sharp knife (for seedlings), bulb separator.
Quick Tips
Replant bulbs at the same depth; avoid damaging the basal plate; water sparingly until established.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip flower stalks at the base; remove yellowing foliage at the end of the growing season.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning needed; remove spent flower stalks to encourage bulb development.
Tools
Sharp, clean scissors or pruners.
Checklist
Remove dead flowers; cut stalks at the base; clean tools after use.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Late summer or early fall, after dormancy begins.
Pot Size
Use a pot one size larger if repotting; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Gently lift bulbs; remove old soil; inspect for damage; replant in fresh, well-drained soil at the same depth.
Suggestions
Repot only when bulbs become crowded or every 2–3 years; best when dormant.
Checklist
Check for crowded bulbs; use fresh soil mix; maintain original planting depth; ensure drainage.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water early in the day; avoid overhead watering; reduce frequency in dormancy.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, targeting the root zone; ensure water penetrates deeply but does not pool; water in the morning to reduce evaporation and fungal risk.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water sparingly during active growth (spring), allowing soil to dry between waterings; reduce watering significantly in summer dormancy and winter.
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 leaves (cold stress); wilting or stunted growth (heat stress).
Cold Stress
Low temperatures can cause root damage and inhibit growth, especially if soil remains wet.
Solution: Ensure well-drained soil to prevent root rot; move potted plants to a sheltered location during freezes; mulch to insulate roots.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to dehydration, leaf scorch, and premature dormancy.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity around the plant; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid dormant period; rinse soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength; apply every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring); avoid fertilizing during dormancy.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal irritation if they ingest parts of Gagea lacaitae. The alkaloids present can cause discomfort but are not typically severe.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Gagea lacaitae can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset due to the presence of alkaloids. The effects are typically transient and resolve without long-term consequences.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicGagea lacaitae contains alkaloids that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and irritation upon ingestion. The physiological impact is generally limited to localized discomfort and is not considered life-threatening in small quantities.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Gagea lacaitae toxic to pets?
A: Unknown, no specific studies are available.
Q: How often should Gagea lacaitae be watered?
A: Moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Q: Does Gagea lacaitae attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it can attract bees and butterflies.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Liliaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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