Pheasant's Eye
adonis vernalis
Also known as: ["Spring Adonis","Yellow Adonis"]
Overview
A perennial herbaceous plant with yellow flowers, native to Europe and Asia.
Benefits & Perks
["aesthetic foliage","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Ranunculales |
| Family: | Ranunculaceae |
| Genus: | Adonis |
| Botanical Name: | Adonis vernalis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: garden bed in a sunny to partially shaded area
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–30–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–7"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter; avoid heavy clay soils.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically in late winter or early spring before new growth emerges.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning; remove only dead, diseased, or overcrowded stems.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade (4–6 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates dappled light in hotter climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun; adjust placement based on seasonal light intensity.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Morning sun is ideal; provide shade during peak heat; rotate plant for even light exposure.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; avoid waterlogged soil; adjust frequency based on season and growth stage.
Soil
well-drained, loamy soil with some sand
pH: Slightly alkaline to neutral (pH 6.5–7.5).
Use a cactus or succulent mix as a base; avoid overwatering; test soil pH periodically.
Temperature
Cool to moderate temperatures (50–70°F or 10–21°C); prefers cooler conditions during dormancy.
Avoid drafts; maintain consistent temperatures; protect from extreme fluctuations.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize sparingly; apply to moist soil; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Seed propagation is most reliable; division of rhizomes can also be attempted in early spring.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Sow seeds shallowly.
- Keep consistently moist.
- Divide rhizomes carefully.
- Replant divisions at the same depth.
Best Time: Early spring before active growth begins; seeds should be sown fresh or stratified for best results.
Environment
Warm, humid conditions (65–75°F or 18–24°C); indirect light for seeds; partial shade for divisions.
Medium
Well-draining seed starting mix or sandy loam for seeds; moist, loose soil for rhizome division.
Hormone
Not typically required for seeds; rooting hormone may aid rhizome division.
Timeline
Seeds may take 1–3 months to germinate; rhizome divisions establish in 1–2 growing seasons.
Tools Needed
Seed trays, pots, sharp knife, rooting hormone (optional), misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use fresh seeds for best germination; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; protect young seedlings from harsh light.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip stems just above a leaf node or bud; avoid cutting into healthy growth.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning required; focus on removing dead or damaged foliage to maintain plant health and appearance.
Tools
Sharp, clean bypass pruners or scissors.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune during dormancy; remove only necessary stems; clean up debris afterward.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter; avoid oversized pots.
Method
Gently remove the plant; trim any dead roots; repot in fresh, well-draining soil with a slightly larger pot.
Suggestions
Repot only when the plant becomes root-bound or every 2–3 years; Adonis vernalis prefers being slightly pot-bound.
Checklist
Prepare new pot with drainage holes; trim roots if necessary; use fresh soil mix; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water early morning or late evening; ensure proper drainage; adjust for seasonal changes.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; avoid wetting foliage; allow excess water to drain away completely.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water sparingly during dormancy (fall/winter), increasing frequency in spring as growth resumes; allow soil to dry between waterings to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or premature flowering due to stress.
Cold Stress
Slows metabolic processes; may cause leaf drop or dormancy if temperatures drop below 40°F (4°C).
Solution: Protect from frost; provide a sheltered location; avoid sudden temperature drops.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may slow under prolonged heat above 80°F (27°C).
Solution: Provide partial shade; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during active growth; avoid dormant periods; rinse soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength; fertilize once in early spring as growth begins; avoid fertilizing during dormancy.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicAdonis vernalis is toxic to cats due to its cardiac glycoside content, which can cause severe cardiac and gastrointestinal distress. Cats are particularly sensitive to these compounds, and ingestion can be life-threatening.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicThe cardiac glycosides in Adonis vernalis are highly toxic to dogs, affecting their cardiovascular system similarly to humans. Exposure can lead to severe cardiac dysfunction and potentially fatal outcomes.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicAdonis vernalis contains cardiac glycosides, which can cause severe cardiovascular effects, including arrhythmias, hypotension, and cardiac arrest. The plant's toxic compounds interfere with electrolyte balance and cardiac muscle function, leading to potentially fatal outcomes.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Adonis vernalis toxic to humans?
A: Yes, it is highly toxic to humans.
Q: Does Adonis vernalis attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.
Q: What are the common problems with Adonis vernalis?
A: Common problems include yellow leaves and wilting.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Ranunculaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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