The Sternbergias are autumn-flowering bulbs with crocus-like flowers, in most cases golden yellow. Unlike crocuses, which are in the iris family (Iridaceae) and the so-called autumn crocuses (Colchicum), which are in the lily family (Liliaceae or Colchicaceae), these are related to daffodils, in the Amaryllidaceae. They like sunny, well-drained sites.

Sternbergia sicula has spectacular yellow flowers that appear to sprout from the bare earth. Narrow green leaves with an attractive silver stripe on the upper part follow later.