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.
