Also known as Small White Fawn-Lily · White Adder's-Tongue · White Dog's-Tooth Violet
Safety note: This plant may be toxic to humans and pets. See toxicity details.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Partial to full shade.
30% intensity
Consistently moist during spring growth, dry during summer dormancy.
70% intensity
Seasonal
Rich, moist, well-drained, humus-rich soil.
50% intensity
Prefers cool spring temperatures, hardy to cold winters.
60% intensity
Outdoor
50% intensity
Light application of balanced fertilizer or compost in early spring.
30% intensity
Annually
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | Yes 4/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | Yes 5/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
All parts of the plant, especially raw bulbs and leaves, contain compounds that can cause gastrointestinal upset, including vomiting and diarrhea, if ingested by humans or pets.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Keep soil consistently moist during its active growth period in early spring. Once the foliage begins to yellow and die back in late spring or early summer, reduce watering significantly as the plant enters dormancy.
Avoid waterlogging, which can lead to bulb rot. Ensure good drainage.
No specific pruning is required for Erythronium albidum. Allow the foliage to naturally yellow and die back after flowering.
Do not cut back the leaves prematurely, as they are essential for replenishing the bulb's energy reserves for the following year's bloom.
Propagate by seed or by division of offsets from mature clumps. Seeds require a period of cold stratification and can take several years to flower.
Division is best done in late summer or early autumn when the plant is dormant, carefully separating the small bulblets.
Not typically grown in pots, but if so, repot dormant bulbs in late summer or early autumn every few years to refresh the soil and provide more space for colony expansion. Use a well-draining, humus-rich potting mix.
Ensure the pot is deep enough to accommodate the bulbs.
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Photos of White Fawnlily (Erythronium albidum)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
