Trout lily Erythronium 'Susannah'
ABOUT
Erythronium 'Susannah', commonly known as dog's tooth violet or trout lily, is a captivating plant embodying a delicate yet striking appearance. Its flowers are distinguished by their unique pendulous shape, reminiscent of a flared and reflexed bell. The petals, typically numbering six, exhibit a harmonious blend of colors, usually showing a gradient of cream to yellow hues that may be accentuated with subtle purple or pink flushes near the base. These petals are elegantly curved backwards, which helps to expose the reproductive structures at the flower's center—these are often in contrasting colors that attract pollinators. The foliage of Erythronium 'Susannah' is equally delightful, with leaves that are lance-shaped to oblong, showcasing a rich green color that often carries a mottled or marbled pattern of deeper green to brown shades. This variegation adds depth to the visual appearance of the plant and creates an attractive canvas even when the plant is not in bloom. These leaves typically emerge in pairs and have a smooth, glossy surface that emerges directly from the base, supporting the long flower stems as a fetching background. The overall form of Erythronium 'Susannah' is one of grace and subtle beauty. The juxtaposition of its nodding flowers against the speckled foliage creates a pleasing aesthetic, making it a favorite among garden enthusiasts for woodland gardens and shaded areas where it induces a sense of natural charm and enchantment.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Liliaceae
Synonyms
Dog's Tooth Violet, Trout Lily, Fawn Lily, Adder's Tongue
Common names
Erythronium 'Susannah'
ToxicityTo humans
Erythronium 'Susannah', commonly known as Trout Lily, has no widely reported toxicity for humans. Generally, this species is not considered poisonous, and there are no well-documented cases of poisoning or harmful effects from ingesting parts of this plant. However, as with many plants, individual sensitivities can vary, and it's advisable not to consume parts of ornamental plants due to potential unknown reactions.
To pets
Trout Lily, the common name for Erythronium 'Susannah', is not known to be toxic to pets. This plant is not listed as a commonly toxic plant to dogs, cats, or other domestic animals. Therefore, there are no specific symptoms of poisoning associated with this plant for pets. Nonetheless, pets should not be encouraged to eat ornamental plants as they can cause gastrointestinal upset or allergic reactions in some animals.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Pink
Height
1 feet (30 centimeters)
Spread
1 feet (30 centimeters)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
North America
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: Erythronium 'Susannah', commonly known as Dogtooth Violet, has attractive mottled leaves and elegant yellow flowers that enhance the visual beauty of gardens and natural landscapes.
- Spring Blooming: Being a spring bloomer, it provides early season color to garden spaces after a long winter.
- Pollinator Attraction: Dogtooth Violets attract various pollinators, such as bees, which are essential for the pollination of many other plant species.
- Low Maintenance: It is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal care once it is established in the proper conditions, making it a good choice for gardeners of all skill levels.
- Shade Tolerance: Erythronium 'Susannah' is suitable for shaded areas of the garden where other flowers may not thrive as well.
- Naturalizing: This plant is good for naturalizing in wooded areas or shady gardens, creating a more natural and less manicured landscape over time.
- Seasonal Ground Cover: It can serve as a seasonal ground cover, spreading to fill space and providing greenery before trees fully leaf out.
- Companion Planting: Dogtooth Violets can be paired with other shade-loving perennials to create a diverse and layered garden design.
- Biodiversity Support: By adding native varieties like the Dogtooth Violet to the garden, you help support local biodiversity and provide habitat for native wildlife.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Erythronium 'Susannah', commonly known as 'Susannah's dog's-tooth violet', can be used as a natural dye, with its petals providing delicate shades on fabrics.
- In specialized culinary applications, the blossoms of Susannah's dog's-tooth violet may be candied or used as dainty and ornamental edible additions to high-end desserts.
- This plant can be a teaching tool for botany and horticulture students, serving to demonstrate propagation techniques through division of its bulbs.
- 'Susannah's dog's-tooth violet' can be featured in nature-inspired art; artists may use its unique form and color as subject matter for paintings and illustrations.
- The plant can serve as a natural indicator for soil health and pH, as it prefers rich, acidic soil to thrive.
- Enthusiasts of native gardening often utilize Susannah's dog's-tooth violet for habitat restoration projects, encouraging biodiversity.
- Photographers may use the intricate flowers of the plant as a focus for macro photography, highlighting the textures and patterns.
- Floral arrangers might employ the blooms for their aesthetic beauty in creating woodland-themed arrangements and bouquets.
- As a companion plant in shaded gardens, 'Susannah's dog's-tooth violet' can support underplanting strategies by providing ground cover that suppresses weeds.
- The blooms can be a source of nectar for early spring pollinators, playing a role in supporting the local ecosystem.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Dog's Tooth Violet is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Dog's Tooth Violet is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Beauty in Diversity: Erythronium 'Susannah', commonly known as Trout Lily, showcases a distinct appearance with its mottled leaves and delicate flowers. This feature can symbolize the unique beauty that diversity brings to our world.
- Resilience: Trout Lilies are perennials, returning year after year, often in challenging environments. They stand for the ability to rebound and persist despite hardships.
- Rebirth and Renewal: The emergence of their flowers is one of the first signs of spring, making them a symbol for new beginnings and the awakening of nature after winter.
- Humility: The nodding nature of the Trout Lily's blooms, which tend to hang downwards, can be seen as a sign of modesty and the grace found in humility.
WaterThe Trout Lily should be watered deeply to ensure the moisture reaches the bulb's roots, typically once a week during active growth in the spring. It is essential to provide the plant with about 1 inch of water each time, equivalent to roughly 0.6 gallons per square yard of soil. During the dormant period in summer and after flowering, reduce watering, allowing the soil to dry out partially. Overwatering can cause bulb rot, so it's crucial to have well-draining soil and adjust watering based on rainfall and soil moisture levels.
LightTrout Lilies thrive best in partial shade conditions, emulating their native woodland habitat. They require a spot that provides dappled sunlight or morning sun and afternoon shade. Avoid exposing them to the harsh midday sun, which can scorch their delicate leaves and flowers. The ideal site for these plants is under a canopy of deciduous trees, where they receive seasonal light changes.
TemperatureTrout Lilies are hardy in zones 3 through 9, tolerating winter temperatures as low as -40 degrees Fahrenheit and summer temperatures up to 80 degrees Fahrenheit. However, they prefer the cooler temperatures of spring and fall, between 60 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit. Excess heat can lead to early dormancy, so providing adequate shade and mulch to keep the roots cool is vital.
PruningFor Trout Lilies, pruning isn't typically required as they are ephemeral and naturally die back after flowering in late spring or early summer. However, removing spent flowers can prevent seed production and conserve energy for next year's growth. Prune away any yellow or dead leaves to maintain tidiness. This minimal pruning can be done as needed after flowering, typically once per season.
CleaningNot needed
SoilThe Dog's tooth violet, prefers well-drained soil rich in organic matter, with an ideal pH of 6.0-7.0. A soil mix composed of leaf mold, well-rotted compost, and a bit of coarse sand or perlite provides the drainage and nutrients needed.
RepottingDog's tooth violets typically don't require frequent repotting and can be repotted every 2-3 years to refresh the soil or when they outgrow their current container.
Humidity & MistingDog's tooth violets thrive in moderate humidity levels, aiming for around 50% relative humidity, which is common in many indoor environments.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Ensure bright, indirect light and moderate humidity for indoor Dog's tooth violets.
Outdoor
Plant in dappled shade with moist, rich soil for outdoor Dog's tooth violets.
Hardiness zone
4-9 USDA
Life cycleErythronium 'Susannah', commonly known as the 'Susannah' dog's-tooth violet, begins its life as a bulb, lying dormant underground during the winter. In early spring, the bulb sends up a pair of mottled, lance-shaped leaves, followed closely by a single flower stalk bearing a nodding, yellow or cream-colored flower with recurved petals. After pollination, which is typically aided by bees and other insects, the flower matures into a capsule-like fruit containing seeds. As summer progresses, the above-ground parts of the plant wither and die back, allowing the plant to re-enter dormancy throughout the hot months and into the fall. During dormancy, the bulb relies on stored nutrients to survive and prepare for the next growing season. If conditions are favorable, the seeds may germinate and grow to eventually form new bulbs, thus continuing the life cycle of the species.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to Summer
The Erythronium 'Susannah', commonly known as dog's tooth violet, is best propagated by dividing and replanting its offset bulbs. This should be done in the late summer when the plant is dormant. Carefully dig up the clump of bulbs without damaging them, then gently separate the offsets from the main bulb. Each offset should have some root attached. Replant these divisions promptly, placing them at a depth of about 3 to 4 inches (about 7.6 to 10.2 cm) and spaced approximately 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 cm) apart. Ensure they are placed in well-drained soil in a location that replicates their natural woodland conditions, such as light dappled shade. Water the transplanted offsets well to help establish them in their new location.
