Species

Erythronium dens-canisDog's-tooth Violet

1 other cultivar

‘Pagoda’Pagoda Trout Lily

bulb corm tuber

Japonicum Japanese Dogtooth Violet

Erythronium dens-canis 'Japonicum'

The Story

Plant Bio

Erythronium japonicum is a spring-blooming perennial that features nodding, purple or pink, lily-like flowers and mottled green leaves.

This species is known for its elegant, reflexed petals and attractive, trout-like leaf mottling, making it a prized choice for shaded woodland gardens.

Uses & Benefits:

Provides early spring color with delicate, nodding yellow flowers, brightening shaded areas.

Naturalizes easily, requiring minimal maintenance once established.

Supports native pollinators like bees and butterflies during early bloom.

SpeciesErythronium dens-canisDog's-tooth Violet

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

Average

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

East Asia

Toxicity

Non-toxic

Bloom period

Early spring – Mid-spring

In flower about 2 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck bulbs 3 inches deep in well-drained soil in fall.
Water thoroughly after planting to settle soil.
Mist foliage during dry periods in spring for healthy growth.
Allow leaves to yellow naturally before dividing or removing.
Mulch lightly to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Transplant if necessary after dormancy ends, typically in early spring.

Pro Tip

Plant bulbs in partial shade for best flowering and avoid overly wet soils in winter.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly during active growth 🌱
Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring
Mulch to conserve moisture and regulate soil temperature
Deadhead spent flowers to promote bushier growth

Don't

Avoid overwatering to prevent bulb rot ❌
Do not expose bulbs to standing water during winter ❌
Refrain from disturbing dormant bulbs unnecessarily
Don't fertilize late in the season to prevent weak growth

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 garden borderShaded rock garden accentNaturalized lawn area

Companion Plants

TrilliumFerns Hostas EchinaceaBleeding Heart

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Japonicum Japanese Dogtooth Violet questions

What zones can Japonicum Japanese Dogtooth Violet grow in?

Japonicum Japanese Dogtooth 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 Japonicum Japanese Dogtooth Violet deer resistant?

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

When does Japonicum Japanese Dogtooth Violet bloom?

Japonicum Japanese Dogtooth 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 Japonicum Japanese Dogtooth Violet need full sun?

Japonicum Japanese Dogtooth Violet does best in part shade.