The Latin name of Eranthis has its roots in Greek and combines spring and flower, a very nice and welcome combination. The common name: winter aconite, is slightly malicious as it refers to the poisonous sap of a summer blooming plant called Aconitum napellus, whose usually blue flowers resemble majestic inflorescences of larkspur. But in no way do they have the look of bright yellow Eranthis, whose buds appear unimaginably early like... February. Yes, they are poisonous, but nobody wants to eat them. Flying insects are probably of a different opinion for the flowers secrete sweet nectar and offer some tasty pollen, so the winged creatures must be very happy to find a place to eat after long winter months of starvation. As we enjoy observing their busy lunchtime we can also satisfy our eyes with golden yellow flowers, the forerunners of far more busy moments to come.
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