Gagea minima
Gagea minima · Liliaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant gagea minima: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Family
- Liliaceae
- Form
- Bulb
- Flowering
- Spring (March to May)
- Adult size
- 10 to 20 cm tall
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Hardiness
- Very hardy (zones 3 to 9)
- Growth
- Fast
- Origin
- Central and southern Europe
Care
Sunlight
Gagea minima prefers full sun to partial shade, ideally at the base of rocky slopes or in well-drained rock gardens. It also tolerates partially shaded areas, particularly in Mediterranean regions. Make sure your site gets at least 4 to 5 hours of direct light.
Soil
This small liliaceous plant needs well-drained, dry to moderately moist soil, preferably rocky or sandy. Avoid heavy, clayey soils that retain moisture. Adding gravel or sand when planting significantly improves drainage.
Watering
Keep the soil slightly moist during spring growth. Gradually reduce watering after flowering, as the bulb enters dormancy in summer. During the rest period (July to September), let the soil dry out almost completely. Excess moisture in summer risks bulb rot.
Fertilizing
A single application of balanced fertilizer or specialized bulb fertilizer in early spring is plenty. Avoid excessive nitrogen, which promotes foliage at the expense of flowers. One application in February-March is generally sufficient for this small species.
Pruning and cleanup
No pruning is necessary. Simply let the foliage fade naturally after flowering so the bulb can accumulate energy. Remove completely dried foliage in summer when it turns brown.
Diseases and pests
Gagea minima is generally very resistant to pests and diseases. The main risk remains bulb rot if the soil is too moist or poorly drained, especially in winter. Good drainage and sufficient ventilation are enough to prevent problems.
Did you know?
Gagea minima is one of Europe's smallest liliaceous plants: its pale yellow flowers measure barely 1 cm across. Its common name 'Dwarf Gagea' reflects this miniature size. Once confused with other Gagea species, the alpine and Mediterranean populations of this plant fascinate botanists with their adaptation to extreme rocky environments.
Where to buy it
Plant the bulbs in autumn for spring flowering. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: from September to November.
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Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.