Species

Erythronium dens-canisDog's-tooth Violet

bulb corm tuber

Pagoda Trout Lily

The Story

Plant Bio

Erythronium 'Pagoda' is a vigorous, clump-forming perennial with mottled, glossy green leaves and stems bearing up to 10 nodding, sulfur-yellow, lily-like flowers in mid-spring.

This hybrid is an RHS Award of Garden Merit winner, valued for its robust nature and profuse, elegant yellow flowers. It naturalizes well in woodland settings.

Uses & Benefits:

Erythronium denscanis Pagoda offers delicate, early spring color, brightening shaded gardens with its charming yellow blooms.

Provides ground cover and naturalizes easily in woodland environments.

Supports native pollinators and beneficial insects during early growth.

SpeciesErythronium dens-canisDog's-tooth Violet

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Bulb Corm Tuber

Height

14 inches

Width

4 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Northwestern North America

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets

Bloom period

Early spring – Late spring

In flower about 3 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck bulbs 3 inches deep in well-draining soil in fall.
Water thoroughly after planting to settle soil.
Mist foliage during growing season to maintain humidity.
Apply a light mulch to protect bulbs during winter.
Fertilize with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring.
Allow foliage to die back naturally after blooming for bulb health.

Pro Tip

Plant in a shaded or woodland garden for best naturalistic display.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly during active growth to keep soil moist.
Mulch to retain soil moisture and regulate temperature.
Fertilize early spring with a balanced fertilizer.
Plant bulbs at appropriate depth for healthy growth.
Allow foliage to yellow naturally before removing.

Don't

Avoid overwatering, which can cause bulb rot ❌.
Do not disturb bulbs once established.
Avoid planting in heavy, poorly-draining clay soil without amendments.
Refrain from pruning foliage prematurely.

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Divide
Mulch
Plant

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Woodland shade borderNaturalized garden bedsUnderstory beneath trees

Companion Plants

Hostas Ferns Trilliums Epimediums Bluebells

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Pagoda Trout Lily questions

What zones can Pagoda Trout Lily grow in?

Pagoda Trout Lily is hardy in USDA Zones 4–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Pagoda Trout Lily deer resistant?

Yes — Pagoda Trout Lily is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Pagoda Trout Lily bloom?

Pagoda Trout Lily typically blooms in early spring through late spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Pagoda Trout Lily need full sun?

Pagoda Trout Lily does best in part shade.