Siberian fawn lily
erythronium sibiricum
Also known as: ["Siberian trout lily","Siberian dog's-tooth violet"]
Overview
A perennial bulbous plant native to Siberia and adjacent regions, known for its nodding, bell-shaped flowers and mottled foliage.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Liliales |
| Family: | Liliaceae |
| Genus: | Erythronium |
| Botanical Name: | Erythronium sibiricum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: woodland garden or shaded rock garden
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent bulb rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, humus-rich soil with some sand or perlite for aeration.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed after flowering or during dormancy to tidy up the plant.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning; remove only dead or spent parts without altering the plant's natural form.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 4–6 hours daily during active growth; partial shade during peak summer to prevent leaf scorch.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to direct sunlight to avoid scorching; provide shade during intense midday sun, especially in hot climates; adjust light exposure based on seasonal changes.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full shade
Avoid full sun in summer; provide dappled light; rotate pots for even growth.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in dormancy
Water thoroughly but infrequently to encourage deep root growth; avoid waterlogging, especially during dormancy; ensure soil dries slightly between waterings.
Soil
moist, well-drained, humus-rich soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure excellent drainage; enrich with organic matter; avoid compacted soil.
Temperature
Cool to moderate temperatures, ideally 50–70°F (10–21°C) during active growth; tolerate cold dormancy but protect from extreme frost.
Protect from frost; avoid extreme heat; maintain moderate temperatures during active growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize sparingly to avoid root burn; apply in early morning or evening; stop fertilizing in late summer to allow for dormancy.
Propagation
Methods
Seed propagation is most common; division of bulbs can also be done after dormancy ends.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- For seeds: scarify if necessary, sow shallowly, keep moist, and provide warmth.
- For bulbs: carefully divide, replant at the correct depth, and water well.
Best Time: Spring, just as new growth begins, or after dormancy ends in late summer/early fall for bulb division.
Environment
Warm, humid conditions for seeds; partial shade and consistent moisture for bulb division.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with added perlite or sand for seedlings; bulb division can be planted directly into prepared garden beds.
Hormone
Not typically required for bulb division; may aid seed germination if scarification is needed.
Timeline
Seeds may take 1–3 years to germinate and establish; bulb division will typically produce blooms in the following season.
Tools Needed
Sharp knife, small trowel, seed trays, rooting hormone (optional), well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Scarify seeds for better germination; divide bulbs only when necessary to avoid stress; maintain consistent moisture for seeds.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip off flower stalks at the base after blooming; trim any yellowing or damaged leaves carefully with clean tools.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning required; focus on removing spent flower stalks and any dead or damaged foliage to maintain plant health and aesthetics.
Tools
Sharp, clean scissors or small pruning shears.
Checklist
Remove spent flowers; trim damaged foliage; clean tools between cuts; avoid over-pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Late summer or early fall, after dormancy ends and before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches (2.5–5 cm) if repotting into a container; ensure garden planting holes are wide enough for bulb expansion.
Method
Carefully lift the bulbs, gently separate any crowded ones, trim any damaged roots, replant at the same depth in fresh, well-draining soil, and water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot only when bulbs become crowded or every 3–4 years to refresh soil and prevent overcrowding.
Checklist
Lift bulbs gently; separate and inspect; trim damaged parts; replant at correct depth; water sparingly until established.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply at the base; ensure proper drainage; reduce watering during dormancy.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone without wetting foliage. Water until it drains from the bottom, then allow the soil to dry moderately before the next watering.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply during active growth in spring, reduce frequency in summer dormancy, and provide minimal moisture in winter. Adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture retention.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure for fertility; incorporate sand or perlite to improve drainage; ensure soil is loose and airy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in excessive heat; leaf damage or failure to emerge from dormancy in extreme cold.
Cold Stress
Prolonged cold or frost can damage foliage and disrupt dormancy cycles, potentially leading to reduced vigor or death.
Solution: Mulch heavily around the base to insulate roots; protect from frost with a frost cloth or cold frame; ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause leaf scorch, premature dormancy, or dehydration, especially if combined with inadequate watering.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity with misting; water deeply in the early morning or late evening to minimize evaporation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during active growth; avoid fertilizing dormant plants; rinse soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during active growth in spring; avoid fertilizing during dormancy.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicErythronium sibiricum is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no reported adverse effects from ingestion or contact with this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Dogs
Non-toxicErythronium sibiricum is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no reported adverse effects from ingestion or contact with this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Humans
Non-toxicErythronium sibiricum is not known to exhibit toxic properties to humans. The plant is generally considered safe for handling and consumption.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does Erythronium sibiricum require full sun?
A: It prefers partial shade, especially in warmer climates.
Q: How often should I water Erythronium sibiricum?
A: Water moderately during the growing season, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Q: Does Erythronium sibiricum naturalize?
A: Yes, it can naturalize in suitable conditions, spreading slowly over time.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Liliaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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