Winter Aconite
Eranthis hyemalis
- Native to:
- Albania, Bulgaria, France, Italy, Lebanon-Syria, NW. Balkan Pen.
Dominicus Johannes Bergsma
Taxonomy
- Division:
- Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants
- Family:
- Ranunculaceae
- Genus:
- Eranthis
- Species:
- Eranthis hyemalis
- USDA Symbol:
- ERHY4
Growth Characteristics
- Life Cycle:
- Perennial
- Growth Habit:
- Forb/herb
- Height:
- 15 cm
- Light Requirements:
- Full Sun
- Drought Tolerance:
- Low
- Bloom Months:
- feb,mar,apr
- Bloom Colors:
- yellow
Reported Fauna Sightings
Bees: ⚠️Western honey bee (Apis mellifera)
Garden & Ecology Notes
- Wildlife Value:
- bees, early spring pollinators
- Deer Resistant:
- Yes
Soil Requirements
- Soil Type:
- rich, well-drained loamy soil
- pH:
- 6.0 - 7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)
- Drainage:
- excellent drainage required
- Moisture:
- consistently moist
- Notes:
- prefers humus-rich soil in deciduous woodlands
Propagation & Germination
- Stratification:
- Cold/moist then warm stratification (double dormancy) — 60–90 days
- Germination Time:
- 30–60 days
- Notes:
- Seeds require a warm period (20°C) for 2-3 months followed by cold stratification (4°C) for 2-3 months to break dormancy.
ORGHPS Germination Guide: Sow immediately, Either the viability of these seeds is short or the species propagates best with fresh seed. Stored seed might be coaxed into germination with temperature cycling and patience. Sow @ 20°C for 3 months, then place @ 4°C for 3 months. * germination unlikely after dry storage > 6 months; best stored in moist towels at either 4°C or 20°C; grow seedlings at cool temperature