Winter Aconite- Garden Basics - Flower - Bulb ((Eranthis))

This hardy tuberous perennial from Europe and Asia blooms in mid to late winter. Blossoms appear two full weeks before crocuses, making it one of the earliest bloomers. Each tuber produces a single flowering stem 3 to 6 inches high just above the rosette of leaves which hub the ground. The little tubers hate to be dry, so plant as soon as you obtain them in an area with good light. They look especially good in an open woodland area where winter shade is not dense. Plants tolerate deeper shade in a humus-rich soil with a neutral pH. They can be planted directly in the lawn because they will complete their cycle before the lawn needs to be mowed. Plant the tubers an inch deep and 3 inches apart and allow them to naturalize. Lift only to divide which should be right after flowering.

E. cilicica
Foliage is bronzy-green and flowers are deep yellow. A little earlier in flower than E. hyemalis, this species typically blooms in January. Choose E. cilicica if your summers are dry.

E. hymalis
1.5 inch bright yellow flowers bloom in February and march. This species appreciates shade in the summer. E. hymalis needs evenly moist soil during summer dormancy.