Eranthis cilicica

Gracing the late winter garden with golden, buttercup-like blooms that shine like sunlight through the cold. Native to woodland slopes in southern Turkey, this refined species offers slightly larger flowers than its more familiar cousin E. hyemalis, each bloom nestled within a ruff of delicate green foliage. It brings warmth and joy to the still-dormant garden, often flowering through the snow. Best planted in partial shade beneath and in humus-rich, well-drained soil that remains moist in winter and dries slightly in summer. It naturalises beautifully, forming cheerful carpets of gold when left undisturbed. Once settled, they are delightfully low-maintenance and reliably return year after year.

Planting Instructions

Planting Time:

Autumn (September to November)

Position:
Partial shade to full sun. Ideal beneath deciduous trees and shrubs where early spring sunlight reaches the ground before leaves emerge.

Soil:
Moist, humus-rich, well-drained soil. Avoid waterlogged or heavy clay. Improve poor soils with garden compost or leaf mould.

Depth & Spacing:

• Soak dry tubers in lukewarm water for 12–24 hours before planting.
• Plant 5cm (2") deep and 5–8cm (2–3") apart in naturalistic drifts.

Planting Tips:

• Choose a spot where they can remain undisturbed for many years — Eranthis dislike being moved.
• Ideal for woodland gardens, under hedges, or in grassy banks.
• Combine with snowdrops for a stunning early-season display.

Aftercare:

• Allow foliage to die back naturally.
• Mulch annually with leaf mould or compost to mimic woodland conditions.
• Once established, they may self-seed gently and spread

Plant Details

Flowering Period:

February/March

Height:

2” (5cm)

Hardy