Eranthus hyemalis – Winter aconite

One of the first flowers to appear each January, Eranthis hyemalis is a tuberous herbaceous perennial which can spread to form large clumps and colonies where its suited. It can be grown under the shade of deciduous trees, and in light grass. The cup-shaped flowers are brilliant yellow, 1 /3cm in width, and surrounded by a charming ruff of rich green stem leaves, a wonderfully cheering sight in late winter, although the flowers do not open until the temperature reaches 10C. The basal leaves are also a rich green. Despite the name, it is related to buttercups, not aconites, and does not share the latters deadly toxicity. Divide in the green and dont let the soil dry out in summer. Holds the RHS Award of Garden Merit.

Site: Exposed or sheltered
Soil: Any moist, well-drained soil, alkaline soil preferred
Position: Full sun or partial shade
Flowering period: JanuaryFebruary
Hardiness: Hardy
Height: 4 (10cm) Spread: 4 (10cm)