Species winter aconite
yellow flowers with yellow stamens, lime leaves and brown stems

winter aconite

Eranthis hyemalis (Cilicica Group)

Winter Aconite is an amazing species of early-flowering plants, belonging to the buttercup family (Ranunculaceae). They are incredibly hardy and easily grown from seed, making them an ideal choice for a novice gardener. The bright yellow flowers will appear straight after snowmelt, and their cup-shaped blooms are often the first to be seen in the spring, heralding the new season. Backed by beautiful fern-like foliage, the small but cheerful flower is a sight for sore eyes in those drab winter months. A great choice for a garden looking for an injection of early-season colour, Winter Aconite is sure to brighten up almost any garden.

Cycle:

Perennial

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Division,Seed Propagation,Cormlet Propagation,Root Cutting

Hardiness Zone:

4 - 7

Flowers:

Yellow Flowers

Sun:

Full sun,part shade

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green,yellow

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

Low

Care Level:

Moderate

watering

Winter Aconite should be watered when the soil becomes dry, approximately every 7-10 days. It should not be watered in excess as this may cause root rot. The soil should be kept moist but not soggy. When watering, ensure the water thoroughly moistens the soil for the entire depth of the pot to ensure adequate hydration. In general, it is best to water Winter Aconite when the soil surface is dry to the touch.

sunlight

Winter Aconite plants need 3-4 hours of sunlight per day. This should be direct sunlight in the early morning, or filtered sunlight during the afternoon. In areas with long winters, it is important to give Winter Aconites as much direct sunlight as possible to encourage blooming in early spring. For best results, plant Winter Aconites in a location with well-drained soil and full sun in winter and light shade in summer.

pruning

For Winter Aconite, pruning should be done in late spring, when the foliage has died back naturally. This species does not respond well to hard pruning, so it should be done sparingly. Deadhead any spent flowers, and then prune small shoots to maintain a neat, rounded shape. Remove any crossing branches or branches that are growing into the center of the plant. Take care not to prune too much, as it can weaken the plant and reduce flowering.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

Winter aconites typically start flowering in February.

Hardiness Map