Winter aconite Eranthis hyemalis 'Orange Glow'
ABOUT
Eranthis hyemalis 'Orange Glow' is a winter aconite variety known for its striking display early in the year. It features cup-shaped flowers that distinguish themselves by their unique orange hue, a rare color for this species which typically has bright yellow flowers. Around the blossom, you'll notice a collar of green, leaf-like bracts that create a ruffled appearance. Below the flower, the plant has a rosette of green leaves that are deeply dissected, giving them a somewhat lacy appearance. The winter aconite emerges from beneath the ground as a bulb.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Ranunculaceae.
Synonyms
Winter Aconite, Winter Hellebore.
Common names
Eranthis hyemalis 'Orange Glow'.
ToxicityTo humans
The plant known as winter aconite is considered toxic to humans. All parts of the plant contain poisonous alkaloids, with particularly high concentrations in the tubers. If ingested, winter aconite can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. In severe cases, it may lead to cardiac complications, muscular weakness, and possibly seizures. Medical attention should be sought immediately if ingestion is suspected.
To pets
Winter aconite is also toxic to pets. The alkaloids found throughout the plant, especially in the tubers, can cause symptoms such as drooling, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea if ingested by animals. More severe reactions may include heart rhythm disturbances, muscle weakness, and seizures. Ingestion of winter aconite by a pet should be treated as a veterinary emergency.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Orange
Height
0.25 feet (7.62 cm)
Spread
0.25 feet (7.62 cm)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Early Spring Blooms: Eranthis hyemalis 'Orange Glow', commonly known as winter aconite, provides vibrant color early in the spring when few other plants are in bloom.
- Attracts Pollinators: Winter aconite flowers attract early-season pollinators such as bees, which are crucial for the ecosystem.
- Low Maintenance: Winter aconite is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal care once established, making it ideal for gardeners of all skill levels.
- Drought Tolerant: Once winter aconite is established, it is quite drought-resistant, reducing the need for frequent watering.
- Naturalizing: Winter aconite has the ability to self-seed and naturally spread over time, creating larger displays each year.
- Cold Hardy: This plant is very cold hardy and can survive harsh winter conditions, making it a reliable choice for many climates.
- Deer and Rodent Resistant: Eranthis hyemalis 'Orange Glow' is typically not favored by deer and rodents, reducing the risk of damage from wildlife.
- Ground Cover: Winter aconite can serve as a beautiful ground cover, especially in woodland garden settings or under deciduous trees.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Eranthis hyemalis 'Orange Glow', commonly known as winter aconite, can be used to create a natural dye; the pigments extracted from the petals yield varying shades of yellow.
- The dried petals of winter aconite can be incorporated into potpourri mixtures, adding a subtle color and a unique textural component.
- Winter aconite bulbs can be given as a gift in a pot or bag, symbolizing the promise of spring and renewal.
- Winter aconite flowers are sometimes used in winter-themed floral arrangements, providing a bright splash of color during dreary months.
- The foliage of winter aconite can be used in terrariums or fairy gardens for a touch of natural greenery and to create a mini woodland scene.
- Winter aconite can serve as a learning tool for children in gardening projects, teaching them about the lifecycle of plants and early spring bloomers.
- Plant enthusiasts sometimes use winter aconite in photography to capture the beauty of early-blooming flowers that herald the end of winter.
- The flowers of the winter aconite can be pressed and used in craft projects, such as handmade greeting cards or bookmarks.
- In areas where winter aconite thrives, they can be used to cover ground swiftly in early spring, enhancing the aesthetics of landscape designs.
- Winter aconite's early flowering can be a cue for gardeners to begin their spring garden preparations, serving as a natural signal in the gardening calendar.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Winter Aconite is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Winter Aconite is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Renewal: Eranthis hyemalis 'Orange Glow', commonly known as Winter Aconite, often blooms in late winter, symbolizing the renewal and the awakening of nature after the cold and dormant period.
- Hope: The early flowering of Winter Aconite brings color to the garden at a time when most plants are not in bloom, representing hope and the promise of spring.
- Bravery: Its ability to thrive in cold temperatures and even push through the snow exemplifies courage and bravery in harsh conditions.
- Optimism: The bright, cheerful yellow-orange hue of 'Orange Glow' is associated with positivity and optimism, reminding us of the warm sunlight that returns after winter.
- New Beginnings: As one of the first flowers to herald the end of winter, Winter Aconite symbolizes new beginnings and fresh starts, encouraging us to embrace change.
WaterWinter aconite should be watered deeply but infrequently to mimic natural rainfall, especially during its growth period. Ideally, watering once a week with about 1 inch of water is sufficient. Be cautious of overwatering, as this can lead to root rot. During the dormant season, reduce watering significantly, only providing water if the soil becomes completely dry. Ensure the plant receives roughly 5 gallons of water per month during active growth.
LightWinter aconite thrives best in partial shade but can also tolerate full sun if the soil remains moist. The ideal location would be under deciduous trees where it can receive sunlight during late winter and spring, before the trees leaf out, but be protected from intense summer sun.
TemperatureWinter aconite is comfortable in temperatures ranging from 25 to 65 degrees Fahrenheit. The plant can survive minimum temperatures down to around 20 degrees Fahrenheit but is best grown in zones 4 through 8 for optimal performance. Its ideal growing condition is in the cooler end of this range, around 50 to 60 degrees Fahrenheit.
PruningPruning winter aconite is not typically necessary, as the plant will naturally die back after flowering. If desired, you can remove spent flowers to keep the appearance tidy. The best time to do any cleanup is after the foliage has yellowed and withered in late spring or early summer.
CleaningAs needed
SoilWinter Aconite 'Orange Glow' thrives in well-drained, humus-rich soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.0. For the best soil mix, combine garden soil, compost, and perlite or coarse sand to ensure it is fertile and has good drainage.
RepottingWinter Aconite 'Orange Glow' does not typically require frequent repotting as it is generally grown as a garden plant. However, if grown in containers, repot every 2-3 years or when the bulbs become overcrowded.
Humidity & MistingWinter Aconite 'Orange Glow' prefers outdoor conditions and is tolerant of a wide range of humidity levels, faring well in the average humidity found in temperate climates.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place Winter Aconite in bright indirect light and cool temperatures indoors.
Outdoor
Plant in partial shade, cool spot, rich and moist but well-drained soil.
Hardiness zone
4-9 USDA
Life cycleEranthis hyemalis 'Orange Glow', commonly known as Winter Aconite, begins its life cycle when the tuber is planted in the fall, lying dormant underground through the winter. As early spring approaches, the plant breaks dormancy with the emergence of a green ruff of leaves and a single central flower, typically vibrant yellow or in the case of 'Orange Glow', a soft orange hue. After flowering, which can last for several weeks in late winter to early spring, the plant sets seed with the foliage gathering energy from the sun before dying back to the ground. The seeds disperse naturally, or can be collected and sown, to produce new plants which may take a few years to bloom. Throughout the summer months, the plant is dormant until conditions trigger the cycle to begin anew. The tubers slowly enlarge each year, forming clumps that can be divided in autumn to propagate the plant.
PropogationPropogation time
Early Spring
The most popular method of propagation for Eranthis hyemalis 'Orange Glow', commonly known as winter aconite, is by dividing its tubers. The best time to do this is in late spring to early summer, after the leaves have died back. Carefully dig up the clumps of tubers and gently separate them by hand. Ideally, each division should have at least one growth point or eye. Plant the tubers immediately at a depth of about 2 to 3 inches (5 to 7.5 centimeters) in a well-drained soil enriched with organic matter. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged to encourage root development and establish the divisions. This simple method helps to maintain the vigor of the plant and increase the number of blooms in subsequent seasons.
