Winter aconite Eranthis hyemalis 'Schwefelglanz'
ABOUT
Eranthis hyemalis 'Schwefelglanz', commonly known as winter aconite, is a charming perennial that adds a splash of color to the late winter and early spring garden. Its vibrant flowers have a buttercup-like shape and are a radiant yellow hue that can brighten up the dreariest of days. These blossoms sit atop a ruff of green, collar-like leaves that add further interest to the display. The leaves themselves are deeply dissected, creating a lacy appearance that contrasts beautifully with the waxy texture of the petals. As one of the early bloomers, winter aconite's presence is a signal that spring is on its way, providing a much-needed source of nectar for pollinators emerging from their winter slumber. The plant's overall form is neat and compact, with flowers and foliage creating an attractive, low-growing carpet that's especially impressive when planted in large drifts. While the overall dimensions of Eranthis hyemalis 'Schwefelglanz' are omitted as per the request, it's worth noting that its size makes it suitable for a variety of garden settings, including rock gardens, woodland gardens, or as an understory planting beneath deciduous trees where they can enjoy the dappled sunlight before the trees leaf out. This winter aconite cultivar is truly a joy for the late winter garden, offering a bright glimpse of the season to come.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Ranunculaceae
Synonyms
Winter Aconite, Winter Wolf's-bane, Winter Hellebore
Common names
Eranthis hyemalis.
ToxicityTo humans
Winter aconite is considered poisonous due to the presence of toxic compounds such as alkaloids, including helleborine. If ingested, winter aconite can cause symptoms like vomiting, nausea, colicky abdominal pain, and diarrhea. In severe cases, ingestion can lead to cardiac complications, muscle weakness, convulsions, and potentially life-threatening symptoms. Contact with the skin may result in dermatitis for some individuals.
To pets
Winter aconite is toxic to pets as well. It contains compounds that can cause severe gastrointestinal upset, including vomiting and diarrhea, if ingested. In severe cases, symptoms can extend to cardiac abnormalities, muscle weakness, seizures, and can be life-threatening. Due to its toxicity, pets should be kept away from winter aconite to prevent accidental ingestion.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Yellow
Height
0.25 feet (8 cm)
Spread
0.25 feet (8 cm)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Early blooming: Winter Aconite 'Schwefelglanz' blooms early in the year, often while snow is still present, providing a cheerful splash of color during the late winter to early spring months.
- Attracts Pollinators: The early flowers provide a valuable source of nectar and pollen for bees and other pollinating insects emerging after winter.
- Low Maintenance: Once established, this plant requires minimal care and can thrive in various soil conditions without the need for regular watering.
- Naturalizing: Winter Aconite 'Schwefelglanz' can spread and naturalize over time, creating charming blankets of bright yellow blooms in woodlands and garden settings.
- Resistant to Pests: It is generally resistant to pests and diseases, making it an easy plant to grow without the need for chemical treatments.
- Cold Hardy: This species is very cold tolerant, making it suitable for gardens in colder climates where it can survive harsh winters.
- Ground Cover: Its foliage creates a dense ground cover that can help suppress weeds and protect the soil from erosion.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Photography Subject: The winter aconite 'Schwefelglanz' with its distinctive yellow flowers provides a unique and striking subject for garden photographers, especially against the backdrop of snow.
- Garden Sculpture Companions: The compact and early growth of winter aconite makes it a charming ground-level complement to garden sculptures and statues during late winter and early spring.
- Education and Demonstration: Winter aconite 'Schwefelglanz' can be used in educational settings to demonstrate the concept of early pollinators, as it blooms so early in the year and attracts bees.
- Ephemeral Art: The petal’s vivid yellow color and early bloom can be used by artists for creating ephemeral art pieces that highlight the transient beauty of nature.
- Winter Garden Themes: Winter aconite can be central to creating a “winter interest” garden theme showcasing plants that enliven the landscape during the colder months.
- Floral Arrangements: Although short, winter aconite flowers can be floated in shallow bowls of water to create stunning indoor floral displays during the late winter season.
- Storytelling Inspiration: The early bloom of winter aconite and its association with the end of winter can be used metaphorically in poetry and storytelling.
- Seasonal Festivals: The flower can be used in decorations and motifs for festivals or events that celebrate the end of winter and the onset of spring.
- Bulb Forcing for Events: With careful planning and indoor forcing, winter aconite bulbs can be made to flower early for specific indoor events or occasions that occur before the natural outdoor flowering time.
- Symbolic Planting: Due to its early flowering, winter aconite can be planted in remembrance gardens as a symbol of hope and the perseverance of life through harsh conditions.
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- Hope: Eranthis hyemalis 'Schwefelglanz', commonly known as winter aconite, is one of the first flowers to bloom in late winter, signifying the hope that comes with the impending arrival of spring.
- New Beginnings: As a herald of spring, winter aconite symbolizes new beginnings and the start of a growing cycle after the dormant winter period.
- Resilience: Winter aconite's ability to push through the snow and cold weather makes it a symbol of resilience and strength in the face of adversity.
- Anticipation: The early blooming of winter aconite embodies the anticipation for warmer days and the abundant growth that spring promises.
- Sunshine: The bright yellow flowers of winter aconite are reminiscent of sunshine, bringing light and warmth in symbolism, even during cold and dark days.
WaterWinter aconite should be watered moderately without letting the soil become waterlogged. During the growing season, ensure the soil is consistently moist by watering once or twice a week. Approximately 1 inch of water each week is ideal as these plants do not tolerate drought well. Reduce watering once the foliage begins to yellow and die back after flowering, as the plant goes dormant during the summer.
LightWinter aconite thrives best in partial shade to full sun. An ideal spot for this plant is under deciduous trees, where it can receive sunlight in the winter and spring before the trees leaf out and provide shade during the summer months. Avoid placing winter aconite in deeply shaded areas as this could affect its blooming.
TemperatureWinter aconite can survive winter temperatures down to -20°F as it is cold-hardy. They prefer the cooler end of the temperature spectrum and do well in spring temperatures ranging between 35°F and 65°F. To flourish, this plant's ideal temperature conditions are cool to moderate, as prolonged heat and humidity can lead to dormancy or decline.
PruningWinter aconite does not require regular pruning, but spent flowers can be deadheaded to maintain appearance. Pruning is typically not needed; however, after flowering, foliage should be allowed to die back naturally to provide the bulbs with energy for the next season. The best time for any cleaning around the plant would be after the foliage has yellowed and wilted.
CleaningNot needed
SoilWinter Aconite thrives in well-draining, humus-rich soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.0. A mix containing equal parts of loam, peat, and sharp sand can simulate their natural woodland habitat. Add leaf mold or compost to enrich the soil and assist with moisture retention.
RepottingWinter Aconites typically do not require repotting as they are perennial bulbs and prefer to be undisturbed. Division or replanting can be done after several years if clumps become too dense.
Humidity & MistingWinter Aconite is tolerant of a wide range of humidity levels and does not have specific humidity requirements. It thrives outdoors in its natural seasonal cycle without the need for humidity adjustments.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light and cool temps.
Outdoor
Plant in partial shade, moist, well-drained soil.
Hardiness zone
4-9 USDA
Life cycleEranthis hyemalis 'Schwefelglanz', commonly known as winter aconite, begins its life cycle with seed germination, typically occurring in late spring or early summer. The seeds develop into small corms, which lie dormant underground during the summer. In autumn, the corms produce roots and shoot tips in preparation for the cold months. Winter aconite enters its most visible stage in late winter or early spring when it produces a rosette of leaves and bright yellow flowers that can push through the snow. Following pollination, the flowers develop into fruiting bodies containing seeds, which are then dispersed to give rise to the next generation of plants. As the temperatures rise in late spring, the above-ground parts of the plant die back, and the corms enter a period of dormancy until the next autumn.
PropogationPropogation time
Early spring
Eranthis hyemalis 'Schwefelglanz', commonly known as winter aconite, is typically propagated by dividing its tubers. The best time to carry out this propagation method is after the plant has finished flowering and the foliage has died back, which is usually in late spring to early summer. To propagate by division, carefully dig up the clump of tubers and gently separate them, ensuring that each section has at least one growth point. Replant the divisions promptly at the same depth they were originally growing, which is typically about 2 to 3 inches (5 to 7.5 centimeters) deep, and water them well. This division allows the plant to rejuvenate and also increases the number of plants in your garden. It is the most popular method because it is simple and effective for increasing your stock of winter aconite.
