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Erythronium dens-canis
Dog's-tooth-violet
Erythronium dens-canis
Erythronium dens-canis, also known as Dog's-tooth violet, is a perennial plant characterized by its nodding, solitary flowers with reflexed petals, resembling a dog's tooth. It blooms in early spring and prefers woodland settings. The plant goes dormant in the summer after flowering.
CategoryDetails
Plant TypePerennial plant
Medicinal UsageMedicinal Usage
Estimated Plant Lifespan10 years lifespan
Toxic to humansToxic to humans
ToxicityToxic to: Dogs, Cats, Horses
Sun Requirements2-4 hours direct sunlight (Partial Shade)
Pollination

Method: Animal

Notes: Primarily pollinated by insects such as bees and flies.

Watering Requirements

Method: Top water

Frequency: Keep soil consistently moist during the growing season, but avoid waterlogging. Reduce watering during dormancy.

Notes: Ensure good drainage to prevent bulb rot.

Humidity Requirements

Level: Moderate

Maintenance: Generally, woodland environments naturally provide adequate humidity, but in drier conditions, grouping plants together can help.

Cleaning RequirementsProtect from strong winds and direct afternoon sun. Apply a layer of mulch in the autumn to help retain moisture and protect the bulbs from frost.
Temperature Range

Min: -15°C

Max: 25°C

Galanthus nivalis
common snowdrop
Galanthus nivalis
Snowdrops also flower early in the spring and enjoy similar woodland conditions, providing an extended period of bloom and complementing the Dog's-tooth violet's delicate appearance.
Anemonoides nemorosa
wood anemone
Anemonoides nemorosa
Wood Anemones thrive in similar dappled shade and moist soil conditions as Erythronium dens-canis, creating a harmonious woodland garden display.
Ajuga reptans
carpet bugle
Ajuga reptans

Bugleweed can be quite vigorous and spread quickly, potentially outcompeting Erythronium dens-canis for space and resources, especially in a smaller garden.

Convallaria majalis
European lily of the valley
Convallaria majalis

Lily of the Valley spreads aggressively via rhizomes and can easily overcrowd Erythronium dens-canis, depriving it of essential nutrients and sunlight.

Slugs and Snails

Slugs and snails can feed on the leaves and flowers, causing damage and potentially weakening the plant. Look for irregular holes in the foliage and silvery slime trails.

Aphids

Aphids suck sap from the plant, weakening it and causing distorted growth. They are small, soft-bodied insects that can be found on the undersides of leaves and stems.

Steps:

    • Collect seeds from mature seed pods in late spring or early summer.
    • Sow seeds in a cold frame or directly into the ground in autumn.
    • Keep soil moist and protect from harsh weather.
    • Bulb offsets can be separated from the main bulb when dormant in summer.
    • Replant bulb offsets immediately at the same depth as the parent bulb.
    • Ensure good drainage and partial shade.

Neem Oil

Effective against aphids and other soft-bodied insects, as well as fungal diseases.

Diatomaceous Earth

A natural way to control slugs and snails; sprinkle around the base of the plant.

Bone Meal

Provides phosphorus, which is essential for root development and flowering.