PLANT OF THE WEEK

ERYTHRONIUM

This pretty perennial bulb produces dainty flowers on slender stems during April and May.

Commonly called Dog’s Tooth violet, because the pointy bulb resembles a canine tooth, it offers lovely ground cover in partial or full shade.

It doesn’t like to dry out so situate in a cool, moist position. Plant the bulbs in autumn around 10cm in depth with the pointy end facing upwards.

Different varieties have violet, yellow or white flowers. ‘Pagoda’ has yellow petals that curve up backwards that resemble a miniature Turk’s Cap lily.

The marbled bronze-green foliage is attractive as well.