Erythronium
Erythronium spp. (incl. E. americanum, E. dens-canis)
Erythronium, commonly called Trout Lily or Fawn Lily, is a graceful spring woodland bulb bearing nodding, reflexed blooms in yellow, white, pink, or purple. It symbolizes transience, renewal, and the quiet joy of early spring.
Liliaceae (Lily family)
Early to mid spring (March–May), among the earliest spring wildflowers
Symbolism & Meanings
Key Meanings
Perfect For
Color Meanings
Similar flowers: primroses and chionodoxas also share similar meanings.
Cultural Significance
Erythronium flowers have long been symbols of early spring's fragile beauty across cultures. The Trout Lily's mottled leaves, resembling the markings of a brook trout, inspired both its common name and a deep connection to woodland streams and the arrival of spring in North American folk traditions. In European gardens, the Dog's Tooth Violet (E. dens-canis) has been cultivated since the 16th century and is cherished as a herald of spring. Their fleeting bloom — lasting only days — reinforces themes of transience and the preciousness of brief, beautiful moments.Shop Our Floral Collection
Transform your space with our curated selection of designer floral throw pillows
Visit Full StoreBotanical Information
Physical Characteristics
Natural Habitat
Growing Guide
Sunlight
Partial shade to dappled sunlight; perfect under deciduous trees that leaf out after bloom
Water
Requires consistent moisture in spring during active growth; tolerates dry dormancy in summer
Soil
Moist, Humus-rich, Well-drained, Slightly acidic (pH 5.5–6.5)
Expert Growing Tips
Plant corms in fall at 3–4 inch depth in humus-rich, moist, well-drained soil
Do not let corms dry out — plant them immediately after purchase
Allow foliage to die back naturally to replenish the corm for next season
Naturalize in drifts for the most impressive spring display
Pairs beautifully with bloodroot, trillium, and Virginia bluebells in spring woodland gardens
Uses & Benefits
Ornamental Uses
- Woodland and shade gardens as spring bulb displays
- Naturalized drifts beneath deciduous trees
- Rock gardens and alpine garden beds
- Native plant and wildflower gardens
- Spring container plantings in shaded spots
Traditional Uses
- Some North American Indigenous peoples used poultices of Trout Lily leaves for skin inflammation and wounds
- E. americanum leaves were used in folk medicine as a mild contraceptive and to treat fever — not recommended for modern use
- Primarily valued as an ornamental and ecological plant today
Disclaimer: Information provided is for educational purposes only. Consult healthcare professionals before using any plant medicinally.
Further Reading
Frequently Asked Questions about the Erythronium
What is erythronium commonly called?
Erythronium goes by many common names depending on the species and region, including Trout Lily, Fawn Lily, Dog's Tooth Violet, Adder's Tongue, Glacier Lily, and Avalanche Lily. The name "Trout Lily" comes from the mottled, fish-like markings on its leaves.
When do erythronium flowers bloom?
Erythronium flowers are among the earliest spring bloomers, typically flowering from March through May depending on the species and location. They emerge as snow melts in woodlands and mountain meadows.
How do you grow erythronium bulbs?
Plant Erythronium corms in fall, about 3–4 inches deep in moist, humus-rich, well-drained soil in partial shade. It's critical not to let the corms dry out — plant them immediately. They naturalize beautifully in drifts under deciduous trees.
What does erythronium symbolize?
Erythronium symbolizes renewal, hope, and the transient beauty of early spring. Its brief but dazzling blooms make it a symbol of precious fleeting moments and the joy of new beginnings after winter.
Is erythronium a lily or a violet?
Despite being called "Dog's Tooth Violet," Erythronium is not a violet at all — it belongs to the Lily family (Liliaceae). The "violet" name likely comes from the purple color of some European species, while "Dog's Tooth" refers to the shape of the white corm.
Are erythronium plants deer resistant?
Erythronium plants are unfortunately not reliably deer resistant and may be browsed by deer, especially in areas with high deer pressure. Planting in more sheltered woodland spots or using deer repellents can help protect them.
Available Colors
Quick Facts
Share This Flower
Explore More Beautiful Flowers
Discover other flowers with similar meanings, characteristics, or cultural significance.
Primrose
Primula vulgaris
Primrose is a delicate spring flower with soft petals in cheerful colors. Among the first to bloom, it symbolizes new beginnings and young love.
Chionodoxa
Chionodoxa forbesii (formerly luciliae)
Chionodoxa, known as Glory-of-the-Snow, is among the earliest spring bulbs to bloom, often pushing through snow. These star-shaped flowers symbolize hope, renewal, and the triumph of life over winter.
Daffodil
Narcissus spp. (N. pseudonarcissus, N. poeticus, and others)
Daffodils are cheerful spring bulbs with trumpet-shaped centers and surrounding petals. They symbolize rebirth, new beginnings, and hope after winter.