Winter aconite (Eranthis hyemalis (Cilicica Group))

Winter aconite

Features and Characteristics

Eranthus hyemalis, commonly called winter aconite, is native to Europe (France to Bulgaria). It is a late winter bloomer (before crocus) that features cup-shaped, upward-facing, bright yellow, butter-cup like flowers on stalks to 3-4” tall. Each flower is subtended by a collar of leaf-like bracts. A true harbinger of spring, these rugged plants often send their shoots up through snow. Lobed, basal, green leaves emerge after the flowers.

Genus name comes from the Greek words er meaning spring and anthos meaning a flower for its very early flowering.

Specific epithet means of winter or winter blooming.

Cilicica Group, synonymous with and formerly known as Eranthis cilicica, is native to western and central Asia (Turkey to Afghanistan). It is very similar to the straight species except it blooms slightly later and produces slightly larger flowers on plants clad with more deeply dissected foliage which is sometimes tinged with bronze.

Care and Maintenance

Easily grown in organically rich, medium moisture, well-drained soils in full sun to part shade. Best in locations that enjoy full sun at the time of bloom, but acquire increasing shade as overhead trees leaf out. Needs consistent moisture year-round (albeit less in summer and fall) even though plants go dormant by late spring. Plant tubers 2-3″ deep and 3″ apart in late summer to early fall. Soak tubers overnight before planting. May self-seed and naturalize over time in optimum growing conditions. Best left undisturbed once planted.

Winter aconite (Eranthis hyemalis (Cilicica Group)) Requirements

Hardiness zone	4 - 7
Sun light	Full sun to part shade
Water	Medium
Maintenance	Low

Common Problems

No serious insect or disease problems.

Uses

Border fronts, rock gardens, along paths or walkways, or containers. Mass under trees or in front of shrubs. Naturalize in open woodland or wildflower areas. Good near kitchen window or garage where flowers can be appreciated in late winter.

Winter aconite (Eranthis hyemalis (Cilicica Group)) Details

Common name	Winter aconite
Botanical name	Eranthis hyemalis (Cilicica Group)
Plant type	Bulb
Family	Ranunculaceae
Hardiness zone	4 - 7
Water	Medium
Maintenance	Low
Flower color	Yellow
Flowering period	March - April
Height	0.25 to 0.50 feet
Width	0.25 to 0.50 feet