1 named cultivar

‘Pagoda’Pagoda Trout Lily

bulb corm tuber

Dog's-tooth Violet

The Story

Plant Bio

Erythronium dens-canis, commonly known as dog's-tooth violet, is a perennial bulb native to Europe. It features unique, nodding, yellow flowers that arise from a basal rosette of lance-shaped leaves.

This species is appreciated for its attractive flowers and is often found in woodland gardens and shaded areas.

Uses & Benefits:

Erythronium dens-canis provides early spring color with its attractive, nodding yellow flowers, brightening shaded woodland gardens.

Its bulbs naturalize easily, reducing garden maintenance and providing long-term floral display.

Supports native pollinators like bees and butterflies during early bloom periods.

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Bulb Corm Tuber

Height

6 inches

Width

4 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Normal

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Europe, Asia

Toxicity

Non-toxic

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck bulbs 3 inches deep in well-draining soil in fall.
Water sparingly until shoots appear, then maintain moisture.
Mist foliage during dry spells for best growth.
Divide clumps every 3-4 years in late summer or early fall.
Mulch lightly to protect bulbs from extreme cold.
Transplant only when necessary, preferably in early spring.

Pro Tip

Plant in partial shade with rich, well-draining soil for optimal flowering.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water during dry periods 🌱
Apply mulch annually to conserve moisture
Divide clumps every few years

Don't

Avoid overwatering to prevent bulb rot ❌
Don’t plant in heavy clay soil without amendment
Refrain from disturbing bulbs during flowering

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Woodland shaded borderNaturalized under treesWildflower garden

Companion Plants

TrilliumFerns Bluebells Primroses Crocuses

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Dog's-tooth Violet questions

What zones can Dog's-tooth Violet grow in?

Dog's-tooth Violet 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 Dog's-tooth Violet deer resistant?

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

When does Dog's-tooth Violet bloom?

Dog's-tooth Violet typically blooms in early spring through mid-spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Dog's-tooth Violet need full sun?

Dog's-tooth Violet does best in part shade.