winter aconite
Eranthis hyemalis
RHS AGM 1993, RHS Plants for Pollinators; MBG Plant of Merit 2021
USDA zones3 to 7
SunHandles full sun to partial sun
WaterHandles moderate to moist soil
Size3 to 6 inches tall3 to 6 inches wide
- Habit
- Clumping
- Bloom season
- Spring, winter
- Bloom color
- Bright yellow
- Foliage color
- Green
- Soil types
- Sand, loam, clay, chalk
- Soil pH
- Acid, alkaline, neutral
Garden uses
Attracts
Notes
Winter aconite (Eranthis hyemalis) is a perennial for borders, rock gardens, naturalized areas, and winter interest. It is hardy to USDA zone 3, or down to -40°F (-40°C). This plant likes full or part sun and average to moist soil of most types. Bright yellow flowers open in late winter and carry into spring, and bees visit them. It forms a low clump that stays 3 to 6 inches tall. It is not a favorite of deer, though hungry deer will eat almost anything.
Pairs well with Carlton daffodil, Spanish bluebell, and White fringe tree.
Native range
Europe, Middle East, and NW. Balkan Pen..