Asian Fawnlily

(Erythronium japonicum)

Asian Fawnlily (Erythronium japonicum)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Erythronium japonicum, commonly known as Asian Fawnlily, is a deciduous perennial bulb native to the forest floors of East Asia, particularly in Japan, Korea, and parts of China. It thrives in the dappled shade of deciduous woodlands, often forming colonies over time. This species is characterized by its lance-shaped leaves and attractive rose-colored flowers that appear in early spring, typically in April. The flowers are solitary and nodding, with recurved petals revealing stamens and a pistil, creating a delicate and showy display. The stem can reach up to 20 centimeters (7.9 inches) in length, with a portion of it being subterranean.

The Asian Fawnlily is valued for its ornamental flowers and is suitable for woodland gardens, shade gardens, and naturalized areas. It is a slow-growing plant that requires patience, as it can take 7–8 years to flower from seed. Once established, it forms attractive clumps that can be left undisturbed for many years. Gardeners should provide it with well-drained, humus-rich soil and consistent moisture, mimicking its natural forest habitat. It prefers part shade to full shade and should be protected from the hot afternoon sun. While it has no major disease problems, it can be susceptible to slug and snail damage. Erythronium japonicum is not known for being invasive and is generally well-behaved in the garden setting.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Bulb
  • Height: 0.5-0.8 feet
  • Width: 0.3-0.3 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: Pink, Purple
  • Flowering Season: Spring
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Part Shade
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Slow, Medium

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption., Hummingbird Garden, Low Maintenance, Showy Flowers

Natural Habitat

Thrives in the dappled shade of deciduous woodlands in East Asia, particularly in Japan, Korea, and parts of China

Other Names

Common Names: Katakuri

Scientific Names: , Erythronium japonicum, Erythronium japonicum f. leucanthum, Erythronium dens-canis var. japonicum, Erythronium japonicum f. album, Erythronium japonicum f. immaculatum, Erythronium japonicum var. leucanthum,

GBIF Accepted Name: Erythronium japonicum Decne.