Description

Eranthis cilicica is one of the first bulbs to bloom in late winter, producing golden-yellow cup-shaped flowers surrounded by a ruff of finely cut green foliage. Native to southeastern Europe and western Asia, it is slightly later and taller than Eranthis hyemalis, making it well-suited for use in mild, damp climates like Ireland.

Thriving in humus-rich, well-drained soil, Eranthis cilicica prefers partial shade and performs best beneath deciduous trees and shrubs where light reaches the ground in early spring. It is ideal for naturalising in semi-wild woodland edges, shaded lawns, or along hedgerows and path borders.

Its early flowers are a crucial nectar source for queen bumblebees and other emerging pollinators, making it highly valuable in biodiversity-driven landscape designs. Over time, it will gently self-seed and establish into bold, naturalistic drifts.

Recommended companions: Galanthus nivalis (snowdrops); Crocus tommasinianus; Corydalis solida Beth Evans; or Anemone nemorosa.

Eranthis cilicica is low maintenance, long-lived, and particularly valuable for public and private planting schemes where early-season colour, wildlife value, and succession planting are desired.