How to plant Eranthis bulbs

Eranthis

Eranthis (or Winter Aconites) are fully hardy will be fine outdoors without frost protection throughout winter. They should be planted between September and mid November for best results. If you’re not ready to plant them as soon as you receive them, you can store them in a cool, dry place for a short while. They may start to deteriorate from November onwards so it is best to get them planted before then - they won’t store until the following year.

— Eranthis bulbs can be planted directly outside in borders or patio containers. They look great under trees and deciduous shrubs.

— If you have a heavy soil or soil with a high clay content, it is a good idea to incorporate plenty of compost and some grit or sand prior to planting to aid drainage.

— If planting in containers, we recommend using peat-free multipurpose compost.

— Choose a position in full sun or partial/dappled shade.

— Plant the bulbs around 5-10cm deep. It doesn’t matter which way up they go, as it is not usually possible to tell which is the top and which is the bottom – they will find their own way.

— Space the bulbs around 5-10cm apart from each other or slightly closer in pots. If planting in groups or natural clusters, you can dig a wide, shallow planting area and scatter the bulbs into it, then cover over with soil.

— If the soil is very dry, it’s a good idea to water them in after planting to settle them. They will not require any further watering through winter unless it is very mild and the soil becomes dry. They will only require water in spring if it is warm and the soil is dry.

Plant calendar

JanFebMarAprMayJuneJulyAugSepOctNovDec
  • Planting
  • Flowering

Gracy knows: Winter aconites

"Closely hugging the ground, eranthis bring the first taste of colour and cheer to your garden after a gloomy winter, and they're tough enough to settle down as perennials."

Planting instructions