[6] Sternbergia lutea has a wide distribution from the Balearic Islands in the Western Mediterranean through to Tajikistan in Central Asia.

Leaves first appear in the autumn (September to November in its native habitats), and are glossy green, up to 12 mm wide; they remain through the winter.

[9] It can be grown outside in the British Isles in well-drained soil; a warm dry period in summer is required for good flowering.

[7] This plant has gained the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit.

[10][11] A vigorous form with narrow leaves is grown in gardens under the name S. lutea var.