Order your professional Erythronium bulbs
Bulbiverse, a specialist wholesale supplier of Erythronium bulbs , offers you a rigorous selection of varieties suitable for professional landscaping. Produced by specialized nurseries, our bulbs benefit from impeccable professional quality , guaranteeing high yield , varietal resistance and disease tolerance . Buying your Erythronium bulbs from Bulbiverse also means benefiting from producer prices , fast and careful delivery throughout France and the support of our responsive sales department . Our team also offers you personalized advice to help you succeed in your planting projects in undergrowth or spring beds. Order your professional bulbs now to guarantee elegant and early flowering. Request a free quote or book now to secure your autumn supplies.
Botanical and ornamental characteristics of Erythronium
Erythronium is a remarkable genus of spring-flowering perennial plants belonging to the Liliaceae family. This genus includes 20 to 30 species distributed mainly in the temperate northern hemisphere, with a notable concentration in western North America. In Europe, the species Erythronium dens-canis is distinguished by its characteristic purple or pink flowers.
The natural habitat consists of humus-rich undergrowth and mountain meadows, where the plant thrives in humus-rich, well-drained soils. This adaptation gives it a remarkable ability to flower abundantly in forest areas with less dense canopies.
The tunicate "onion" type bulb has an elongated to ovoid shape, measuring 2 to 5 cm in length and 1 to 2 cm in diameter. Its tapered shape reminiscent of a canine explains its vernacular names "dog's-tooth" or "dog's-tooth violet". The outer integument is ivory white to beige in color. These bulbs naturally develop at a depth of 10-15 cm and frequently produce 1 to 3 stolons for vegetative propagation.
The foliage is a major ornamental asset with its two narrow, thick, and fleshy elliptical basal leaves. The medium to dark green color is distinctly marbled with silver, brown, or purple markings, varying according to the species and exposure. The deciduous foliage follows a precise spring cycle, emerging as soon as the snow melts and persisting for 2 to 3 months before disappearing in early summer.
The hanging bell-shaped flower measures 3 to 4 cm in diameter, carried by a 10 to 15 cm floral stem. The tepals have varied colors (white, yellow, pink, purple) with contrasting yellow stamens. Each monopodial stem only bears a single flower, with the particularity of closing at night and opening in the morning.
Mature height varies between 10 and 20 cm for commonly cultivated species, with some horticultural varieties reaching 20 to 35 cm. The elegant, slender habit, with a supple flower stem arching under the weight of the flower, gives a graceful appearance ideal for shady arrangements.
Horticultural varieties and selections
The genus Erythronium offers remarkable diversity with approximately 27 species distributed across Europe, Asia, and North America. For professionals, knowledge of cultivars and wild types with distinct ornamental characteristics is essential.
Among the remarkable cultivars , Erythronium 'Joanna' stands out for its large yellow flowers that turn apricot as they ripen, offering an evolving visual spectacle. Erythronium americanum has yellow flowers less than a meter high, flowering from April to June in shaded exposure. The wild types 'Dog's Tooth Violets' have a modest height of 10-15 cm and a spread of 8 cm, with early flowering from January to the end of March.
Foliage diversity is a selection criterion, with some cultivars displaying very attractive markings while others have glossy emerald green foliage. All these varieties, wild or horticultural, are known for their ease and reliability of cultivation . For professionals, an assortment including traditional species and modern cultivars allows us to meet the diverse needs in terms of color, height and earliness of flowering.
The easiest species to grow include Erythronium dens-canis and some related Asian species. Specialist bulb growers also offer western North American species: E. hendersonii, E. revolutum, E. tuolumnense, E. oregonum, and E. californicum.
Planting calendar and techniques
The success of professional Erythronium planting depends on strict adherence to the planting schedule and technical specifications.
Optimal planting period
September is the optimal time to plant Erythronium bulbs. Planting should be done very quickly after receipt, as the bulbs are sensitive to drying out and may lose their germination capacity during prolonged storage above ground. Planting from late August to early September is recommended to ensure optimal establishment before winter. For areas with early winters, it is imperative to finalize planting before the end of September.
Technical depth and spacing
The standard planting depth is 10 cm for most varieties, which can be increased to 15 cm depending on conditions or species. For Erythronium 'Pagoda', a specific depth of 5-6 cm is recommended. When growing in containers, maintain a minimum depth of 12 cm, as bulbs may try to escape through the bottom in the second year. Using 29 cm deep containers ensures a sustainable crop.
The standard spacing of 10 cm in all directions remains the safe technical reference, although some sources suggest 5-6 cm for a mass effect. For a significant visual impact from the first year, plant in groups of at least 5 bulbs. Density can reach 30 plants per square meter for the 'Pagoda' variety. Since Erythronium does not like to be moved once established, choose the final location wisely from the moment of planting.
Cultivation conditions and technical management
Mastery of specific growing conditions and maintenance adapted to the life cycle are conditions for the success of professional cultivation of Erythronium.
Soil specifications
Erythronium prefers loamy to sandy loam soil that is very rich in organic matter (>5% of the total volume). This soil must have excellent moisture retention capacity with impeccable drainage (infiltration >20 mm/h). Any waterlogging, particularly in summer during dormancy, causes bulb rot. The optimal pH is between 6.0 and 7.0, with some species tolerating a pH of 5.5. Before planting, work the soil to a depth of 20 cm and incorporate compost for enrichment.
Exposure and water management
Optimal exposure is light to partial shade , protecting against excessive temperature fluctuations and direct sunlight. Planting under deciduous trees and shrubs provides filtered light in spring and natural protection in summer.
Water requirements vary depending on the cycle phase. Watering thoroughly immediately after planting ensures soil-bulb adhesion. During spring growth and flowering, keep the soil constantly fresh without soaking. During summer dormancy, gradually reduce watering, keeping the soil slightly moist without over-moistening. Bulbs are very sensitive to drying out.
Fertilization program
Amend the soil with well-rotted organic matter before planting. During spring growth, apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer (NPK 10-10-10) at 20-30 g/m². After flowering, apply a fertilizer rich in phosphorus-potassium (NPK 5-10-10) at 15-20 g/m² to encourage bulb development. Never place fertilizer directly at the bottom of the planting hole.
Winter protection and mulching
Although hardy down to -20°C for most species, mulching is still strongly recommended. Apply a 4-7 cm thick layer of organic mulch (dead leaves, mature compost) in the fall to protect against deep frost, stabilize soil temperature, and retain spring moisture. Remove or lighten this mulch in the spring to prevent stagnant moisture. In very harsh winters (<-15°C), increase the mulch to 15 cm and complete with a winter fleece.
Specialized routine maintenance
Regular spring weeding minimizes root competition, favoring superficial manual or mechanical methods. Removing faded flowers is not mandatory but can prevent the bulb from being exhausted by bolting. It is imperative to preserve the leaves until they have completely yellowed, as they are vital for replenishing bulb reserves. Annual lifting is not necessary, but division every 4-5 years maintains vigor, to be carried out at the end of the summer dormancy with immediate replanting at a depth of 10-15 cm.
Flowering cycle and development
The flowering of Erythronium is an iconic early spring event , providing colorful splendor to professional landscaping.
The main flowering period extends from March to May in France, with variations depending on the species, altitude, and local climatic conditions. The first flowers appear as early as early March at lower altitudes, while in Alpine resorts, flowering can extend until June at 2,200 meters above sea level. Snowmelt is often the trigger for floral emergence.
The average flowering time for a colony is 2-4 weeks, a crucial interval for pollinators and the visual interest of flowerbeds. The development of the bulb until flowering is a long process: a bulb must be 4-5 years old to produce its first flowers. From a seedling, expect an average of 10 years to obtain the first flowers and seeds.
One study found that only 3.2% of the erythrones observed in a population flowered, with 74.9% being mature, non-flowering plants and 22% being juveniles. This data highlights the importance of patience and long-term planning in professional production.
Erythronium marks the spring renewal with its early flowering, occurring when few other species offer such a floral spectacle. The solitary, pendulous, hermaphroditic flowers range in color from pinkish-purple to white for E. dens-canis, and yellow for E. pagoda. After flowering, a capsule with three fleshy ribs forms, containing seeds scattered within a radius of 10-20 cm around the mother plant.
Landscape applications and plant associations
Erythronium is a bulbous plant of choice for professional landscaping, offering varied aesthetic possibilities and excellent naturalization capacity.
Integration into the developments
Erythronium excels at creating vibrant floral displays in early spring. For maximum visual impact, plant in groups with 6-7 cm between bulbs, encouraging the rapid formation of dense floral clusters. These plants are particularly suited to semi-shaded to shaded areas, bringing brightness and elegance with their delicate flowers reminiscent of miniature lilies. They are a natural fit for beds, borders, rock gardens, and pots.
Capacity for naturalization
Erythroniums have a remarkable ability to naturalize , remaining in place and multiplying over the years, withstanding the harsh winter conditions. Their vegetative propagation by stolons or bulbils, although moderate, allows the gradual formation of extensive colonies. Once established, these plants prefer not to be disturbed, making them ideal candidates for sustainable development projects. Allow 4-5 years to obtain the first blooms from seedlings. In favorable conditions, clumps can live and multiply for 20-30 years , or even longer.
Synergistic plant associations
Erythronium blends perfectly with other bulbous and perennial plants that share similar growing requirements. For aesthetic compositions, botanical tulips, crocuses, fritillaries , and Elfflowers make ideal companions. In undergrowth, natural associations with Trillium, Cyclamen, and Viola are particularly successful.
An interesting feature is their ability to form beneficial mycorrhizal networks with certain woody species (maples, oaks, Arbutus menziesii, Pseudotsuga menziesii), promoting the establishment of young tree seedlings by supplying carbon via the network. These ecological synergies deserve consideration for forest or undergrowth management.
Use as a cut flower
Use as a cut flower has specific advantages and limitations. The elegant, small lily-like flowers offer a varied color palette (white, yellow, pink, purple), bringing originality to spring bouquets. The 15-30 cm flower stems allow them to be used in small bouquets or fine floral arrangements. However, the thin, flexible stems lack the rigidity for large, structured bouquets. Their vase life remains short (2-5 days), and the lack of notable fragrance can be a limitation depending on demand. These characteristics make them suitable for refined, miniature, or sophisticated creations rather than mass production.
Ecological interest and support for biodiversity
The integration of Erythronium into professional developments is not limited to its aesthetic appeal but constitutes a significant gesture in favor of biodiversity and local ecosystems.
Erythronium is remarkably attractive to pollinators , a crucial role in maintaining ecological balances. Its flowering from March to May occurs when floral resources remain limited for pollinating fauna, this precocity making Erythronium a vital source of nectar and pollen at the start of the season.
It mainly attracts wild bees , particularly solitary species that are very active from the first days of spring. Foundation bumblebees, searching for food after winter emergence, are also regular visitors. More occasionally, other spring pollinating insects (hoverflies, flower beetles) can be observed.
Attractiveness stems from the availability of nutrient resources at a time of scarcity, as well as the open floral morphology, easily accessible to pollinators of various sizes. The period of interest extends over the flowering period (2-4 weeks), which is crucial for solitary insects emerging in spring with a pressing need for resources to found their nest.
For professionals, the integration of Erythronium offers a dual benefit : it contributes to the cross-pollination of cultivated plants and actively supports local pollinator populations, which are of vital importance in agricultural and horticultural environments. It is recommended to plant a variety of species of interest to pollinators, with staggered flowering periods, ensuring maximum access to a continuous food source.
Additional technical considerations
Beyond the fundamental aspects, other technical and practical considerations are essential for the professional cultivation and marketing of Erythronium.
Regulatory status and toxicity
Research does not reveal specific information on the potential toxicity of Erythronium to humans or livestock, nor any documented health risks. However, regulatory agencies should be checked for any commercialization in public spaces. Since Erythronium dens-canis is protected in certain European regions, its commercialization may require specific authorizations. For harvested or divided bulbs, only work on cultivated populations and never collect from wild populations.
Life cycle and longevity
Erythronium is a perennial plant that undergoes an annual cycle of growth, flowering, and dormancy, remaining in place for several seasons without replanting. After spring flowering, the aerial part disappears completely in summer, the plant remaining in bulb form until the following spring. Its remarkable longevity reaches 20-30 years in optimal conditions (humus-rich, fresh, well-drained soil), constituting a major asset for sustainable developments.
Multiplication techniques
Multiplication is done by two main methods:
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Bulbil division : The fastest and most reliable method for producing new plants that are faithful to the parent plant. Separate the small bulbils produced around the main bulb and replant during the summer dormancy. Slow growth requiring 2-3 years to reach adult size and flower. A mature bulb produces 1-3 bulbils per year.
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Sowing : possible method but longer due to genetic variability of the plants. Slow development with 5-7 years between sowing and first flowering. High multiplication potential, one plant producing several dozen seeds per year. Sow fresh seeds immediately after harvest, sensitive to drying out. Cold stratification (3-4 months at 1-5°C) can improve emergence.
Management in extreme conditions
Specific adaptations are necessary to cope with extreme climatic conditions:
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Prolonged drought : Regular watering (15-20 mm of water per week, every 3-4 days if temperatures >30°C). Thick mulch (7-10 cm) to retain moisture. Increase planting depth (10-12 cm) and reduce density (2-3 bulbs/m²).
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Harsh winters : Apply a 15cm protective layer of mulch before the first frost. For areas regularly below -15°C, add a wintering fleece. Choose the hardiest species such as E. dens-canis. Improve drainage by incorporating 30% coarse sand into heavy soils.
Vernalization needs
Erythronium plants strictly require vernalization (a period of exposure to cold) to induce flowering. This natural mechanism ensures spring flowering. Vernalization occurs in the apical meristem of the bulbs, generally requiring 2-3 months of cold. The presence of oxygen and sugars is also necessary for effective vernalization. For seedlings, sow in early autumn to allow for germination and natural seed stratification.
To summarize: Our Erythronium bulbs
At Bulbiverse , we offer our expertise to professionals looking for high-quality Erythronium bulbs. As a specialist wholesale supplier of Erythronium bulbs , we select healthy, calibrated bulbs grown in optimal conditions by specialized growers. Erythronium, also known as dog's tooth, is distinguished by its early spring flowering, its resistance to cold, and its remarkable naturalization potential. Our bulbs, measuring 2 to 5 cm, allow for effective planting in shaded beds or forest areas, with a spacing of 10 cm and a depth of 10-15 cm depending on the variety. Buying Erythronium bulbs from Bulbiverse means benefiting from dedicated technical support, fast deliveries, and competitive prices. With a variety of varieties like E. dens-canis, E. revolutum or E. tuolumnense, you can create floral arrangements tailored to your aesthetic or ecological goals. Our experts will assist you in selecting cultivars suited to your soil and climate conditions. Whether for naturalization projects, spring ornamentals or cut flowers, our solutions meet your expectations. To meet the needs of your horticultural projects or your landscaping clients, trust our expertise as a specialist wholesale supplier of Erythronium bulbs . Buy Erythronium bulbs with complete peace of mind with proven technical advice and attentive after-sales service. With Bulbiverse , you have the assurance of a responsive and reliable wholesale supplier of Erythronium bulbs . Buying Erythronium bulbs from us means choosing a sustainable and professional supply chain.
