Pheasant's eye
Adonis vernalis · Ranunculaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant pheasant's eye: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Flowering
- March to April
- Mature size
- 20 to 40 cm in height
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Hardiness
- Very hardy (down to -15°C)
- Origin
- Central and Eastern Europe, Central Asia
- Growth
- Slow
- Soil type
- Well-drained, limy or neutral
Care
Light Exposure
Spring Adonis prefers a sunny or partially shaded location. Place it at the front of a border or in a rock garden where it benefits from direct light for at least 4 to 5 hours daily. Overly shaded exposure will reduce flowering.
Watering
Water moderately in spring during growth and flowering, especially during prolonged dry spells. Once established, the plant tolerates summer drought well thanks to its deep roots. Avoid excess moisture in winter.
Soil
Well-drained soil is essential to prevent root rot. Enrich the soil with crushed limestone or coarse sand if it is too compact. Adonis appreciates slightly alkaline or neutral soils.
Fertilizing
An annual application of well-decomposed compost in early spring is sufficient. Avoid nitrogen-rich fertilizers that would promote foliage at the expense of flowering.
Pruning
No pruning is necessary. Let the foliage dry naturally in summer as the plant goes dormant. Clean up dead debris in autumn if desired.
Diseases and Pests
Spring Adonis is a very robust plant, rarely affected by diseases. In overly wet soil, watch for root rot. Slugs may occasionally damage young shoots in spring.
Did you know?
Spring Adonis is one of the first flowers to bloom in the mountains, hence its nickname in Eastern Europe: "the flower of spring's good news." In traditional medicine, certain parts of the plant were used, but the plant contains potentially toxic active compounds: it's best kept as an ornamental jewel rather than for internal use.
Where to buy it
Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.
Add this plant to my garden →Plants from the same family
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- Lenten roseHelleborus orientalis
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Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.