Winter Hellebore Eranthis hyemalis

Winter aconite is a low-maintenance tuberous perennial that blooms in rounded clumps in late winter or early spring. It has showy, solitary, bright yellow, cup-shaped blooms that are surrounded by bright green leafy bracts. The basal leaves are rich green and divided into palmate or pinnate lobes. The plant is low-growing and measures 3 to 6 inches tall and about 6 inches wide. They are excellent for long, winter-blooming displays, but it goes dormant by late spring and summer.

This plant is a member of the Ranunculaceae or buttercup family and is native to southeast France, as far east as Bulgaria, and is found in woodlands and meadows.

The genus name, Eranthis, is from two Greek words, Er meaning spring, and anthos meaning early flowering. The specific epithet, hyemalis, means winter blooming.   

Winter Aconite tolerates full sun to partial shade, and it will thrive in locations that receive 5 to 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. The soil must be rich in organic material, well-drained, and have an alkaline pH, preferably. This bulb is intolerant to bright winter sun and high temperatures. The tubers are best planted in late summer to early fall. Plant them 2 to 3 inches deep and about 3 inches apart. This plant can be injured in temperatures below 5 degrees F (-15 degrees C).  It tolerates drought, but make sure to keep the soil moist during the growing season. Propagate by direct sowing seeds in the fall or division after the blooming season is completed.

Numerous hybrid selections and species are available but are often difficult to distinguish and are misidentified in trade, or mislabeled as Lenten rose.

This delightful yellow flower will add a splash of color to rock gardens, beds, walkways, and woodland gardens. Utilize it for border fronts or patios in protected, shady locations, or let it naturalize in the landscape. Because of their small size, they are best planted in drifts for a greater impact of color or planted in mass under trees. Winter Aconite is resistant to browsing by deer and can be planted near a black walnut tree. Exercise caution if you have pets or small children. The plant and tuber are poisonous if ingested. Wear gloves and other protective clothing when handling this plant.

Seasons of Interest:

Bloom: Late Winter or Early Spring     Foliage:  Late Winter or Early Spring

Quick ID Hints:

• Flowers nodding, petaloid sepals
• Short plant with stiff, large, green leaves 
• Leaves are palmately divided into many leaflets
• Flower center of numerous stamens outlined by tubular nectaries, or fleshy, beaked capsules

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems:  Winter Aconite has no serious insect or disease problems.  Fungal diseases are occasional problems.