Overview
Adonis vernalis is a columnar upright annual biennial in the genus Adonis, part of the Ranunculaceae family, with deciduous foliage. Adonis vernalis grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils and alkaline pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. Suggested uses include wildflower meadow, cottage and informal garden, wildlife gardens and flower borders and beds.
About
Adonis vernalis, commonly known as bird's eye or false hellebore, is a herbaceous perennial cultivar within the Adonis genus, which features finely dissected foliage and solitary, bowl-shaped blooms. This columnar upright plant is deciduous and thrives in full sun with exposure ranging from sheltered to exposed sites. It prefers moist but well-drained alkaline soils such as chalk, clay, loam, or sand, and is hardy to UK zone H7. Suitable for wildflower meadows, cottage gardens, wildlife gardens, and flower borders, it is best planted out after the last frost and propagated by seed, offering seasonal interest in spring and summer.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Adonis
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
- Soil pH
- Alkaline
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained
- Aspect
- North-facing, East-facing, South-facing, West-facing
- Exposure
- Exposed, Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H7
Plant details
Adonis vernalis size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Annual Biennial
- Habit
- Columnar upright
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Suggested uses
- Wildflower meadow, Cottage and informal garden, Wildlife gardens, Flower borders and beds
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Adonis vernalis
- Propagation
- Seed
- Pest resistance
- Susceptible to slugs
- Disease resistance
- Generally disease-free
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Adonis vernalis?
Adonis vernalis prefers full sun. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.
What soil does Adonis vernalis need?
Adonis vernalis is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including chalk, clay, loam and sand. It prefers alkaline soil. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.
Is Adonis vernalis hardy in the UK?
Adonis vernalis has an RHS hardiness rating of H7, meaning it is fully hardy throughout the UK, tolerating temperatures below -20°C.
How do I propagate Adonis vernalis?
Seed.
