Eranthis hyemalis
bulb corm tuber RHS Award

Winter Aconite

Eranthis hyemalis

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Bulb Corm Tuber

Height

6 inches

Width

6 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7

Water

Moist

Humidity

Moderate

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Europe and Asia

Toxicity

Toxic if ingested

The Story

Plant Bio

Eranthis hyemalis, commonly known as winter aconite, is an early-blooming perennial that produces cup-shaped yellow flowers. It is one of the first flowers to bloom in spring, often appearing while snow is still on the ground.

Bloom Period:

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesEranthis hyemalis provides cheerful yellow blooms that brighten early spring gardens, adding color and life after winter.
Practical UsesIts early flowering signals the start of the growing season, helping plan garden activities.
Ecological BenefitsSupports early pollinators like bees emerging from hibernation.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

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Planting

How to Grow

  1. Tuck bulbs 2 inches deep in well-draining soil in late summer.
  2. Water thoroughly after planting to settle soil around the bulbs.
  3. Mist foliage regularly during early spring for optimal growth.
  4. Thin out crowded plants after flowering for better air circulation.
  5. Apply a light mulch in late fall to protect roots during winter.
  6. Divide clumps every 3-4 years in early fall to propagate new plants.

Pro Tip

Plant in shaded or partially shaded areas with moist, well-draining soil for best blooms.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Water consistently to keep soil moist but not waterlogged 🌱
  • Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring
  • Mulch to conserve moisture and regulate soil temperature

Don't

  • Avoid overly dry or waterlogged soil ❌
  • Don’t disturb bulbs during flowering period
  • Refrain from pruning after flowering to allow seed set

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Divide
Fertilize
Plant
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Woodland floor accentShaded border plantEarly spring garden highlight

Companion Plants

Ferns Hostas Crocus Snowdrops Hepatica

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Winter Aconite questions

What zones can Winter Aconite grow in?

Winter Aconite is hardy in USDA Zones 4–7. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Winter Aconite deer resistant?

Yes β€” Winter Aconite is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Winter Aconite bloom?

Winter Aconite typically blooms in early spring through early spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone β€” Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Winter Aconite need full sun?

Winter Aconite does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Keep exploring

Grow Winter Aconite with confidence

See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.

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