Erythronium

This group consists of 25hardy, deciduous perennials, which grow from corms. They are natives of Europe, Asia, but mostly of North American woodlands. They are suitable for growing in woodland gardens, shady flowerbeds, rock gardens and containers. They are commonly known as Adder's Tongues, Fawn Lilies, Trout Lilies and Dog's Tooth Violets. They get the first three names from the handsomely dappled foliage, which begins to uncurl in February. The last name was given to E. dens-canis, a variety from Asia and Europe, which has a long-pointed corm resembling it's namesake. A few weeks after the leaves emerge from the soil, one or more delicate, nodding flowers are produced per plant on stems about 6 inches high. The Lily-like flowers may be white, yellow, pink, rose or purple. E. dens-canis (Dog's Tooth Violet) produces white or rose to purple flowers with blue anthers. E. revolutum (Mahogany Trout Lily) is a native to British Columbia and California. Its rose-pink flowers are banded with yellow on the insides of the petals. A favorite variety, 'Pagoda', has deep yellow flowers with a central ring of brown and lightly variegated leaves.

Pot Cultivation

Dog's Tooth Violets are hardy from zones 3 to 8; although they all grow best where the ground freezes in the winter. These plants should be grown in well-drained, organic soil such as sandy loam with peat or leaf mold mixed in. The corms should be planted as early as possible in the fall, as soon as purchased; this allows them to develop roots before cold weather sets in. It is important not to let them dry out. Set them 4 or 5 inches deep and 3 to 5 inches apart. Water them while they are actively growing and blooming. During the summer, while they are dormant, it isn't necessary to water them, but place mulch over their space to maintain some moisture. Locate your plants in a light to medium shady area.

Propagation

Allow the seedpods to ripen and fall to the ground or sow them in containers. The seedlings will bloom in two or three years. The plants should only be disturbed when the become crowded. They can be lifted and divided when the leaves have died down.