When to plant

• Plant in fall, starting about 3 weeks before your first fall frost.
• Ready to harvest about 180 days after planting.

Plant bulbs 6–8 in deep, pointy end up, once the soil cools. Most come back weaker each year; many gardeners replant yearly.

Frost dates depend on where you live. Enter your ZIP code to get exact dates.

Dates by zone: 3a 3b 4a 4b 5a 5b 6a 6b 7a 7b 8a 8b 9a 9b 10a 10b

Growing basics

Not edible.

Harmful to pets. The bulbs are the most toxic part, but leaves and flowers can also make cats and dogs sick.

Sun

Full sun (6+ hours)

Spacing

4–6 in

Soil temperature

At least 40°F

Time to harvest

About 180 days

Containers

At least 2 gallons

Plant family

Other

Pests and problems

Grow it well

Affiliate links: we may earn a small commission, at no extra cost to you.