Growing Sternbergia

Pronunciation: stern-berg'ee-uh or stern-ber'jee-uh 

Bulb size: 10 cm 

Plant as soon as possible in full sun and light, very well-drained, humus-rich soil. Good drainage is critical to success with these bulbs. Plant bulbs 6″ deep, 4″ apart (10 per sq ft.). Sternbergia grows naturally in calcareous soils, so many gardeners like to add a bit of lime to sweeten acidic soil. In zones 6–7, select a warm, protected spot and use a winter mulch of evergreen boughs to protect the foliage.