Winter Aconite - Eranthis cilicica

Common Name :	Winter Aconite.
Binomial Name :	Eranthis cilicica
Family :	Ranunculaceae
Photo Taken :	Ireland

Botanical Identity

Eranthis cilicica, commonly known as winter aconite, is a tuberous perennial belonging to the Ranunculaceae family. It is native to the mountainous woodlands of southern Turkey, particularly the Cilicia region, from which it gets its species name. Closely related to Eranthis hyemalis, it is one of the first plants to bloom in late winter or early spring, often emerging through snow, making it a cherished herald of the new growing season.

Plant Description

This low-growing plant typically reaches a height of just 10 to 15 centimeters. It emerges from small tuberous roots and produces finely divided, dark green leaves that appear after the flowers. Eranthis cilicica prefers moist, well-drained soil rich in organic matter and does best in partial shade, making it ideal for naturalizing under deciduous trees and shrubs. Compared to its cousin E. hyemalis, it has slightly larger flowers and a more refined growth habit.

Flowers and Fruit Characteristics

The flowers of Eranthis cilicica are cup-shaped and bright yellow, often surrounded by a collar of green bracts that resemble a ruffled collar or leafy rosette. They appear very early in the year, typically between January and March. The flowers are pollinated by early insects, and once pollinated, they form small, green seed pods that split open to release shiny black seeds. These can self-sow if left undisturbed.


Photos of this Winter Aconite (Eranthis cilicica) were taken from the following locations:
1) March 2016: Botanical garden, Dublin, Ireland.


Written by Lonely Traveler,
For blog icflora.blogspot.com