Erythronium dens-canis 'Old Aberdeen'

dog's tooth violet

Eventual height & spread

Erythronium dens-canis 'Old Aberdeen'

dog's tooth violet

  • 1 litre pot
  • £19.99
  • available to order from spring
  • 3 × 1 litre pots
  • £49.99 £16.66 each
  • available to order from spring
Delivery options
  • Standard £5.99
  • Position: partial shade
  • Soil: moderately fertile, moist but well-drained
  • Rate of growth: fast
  • Flowering period: March to April
  • Hardiness: fully hardy


A petite perennial delight with deep green leaves sporting a captivating purple-brown marbling. In early spring, ‘Old Aberdeen’ bears slender stems with reflexed purple petals displaying golden brown accents and inky blue anthers. This early-flowering dog's tooth violet returns each year, showcasing its charming blooms and lush foliage.


  • Garden care:
    Plant in partial shade in humus-rich, moist but well-drained soil, setting plants at the same depth they were in their pots. Space them 20-30cm (8-12in) apart in naturalistic groups and water well after planting. Apply a 5-7cm (2-3in) mulch of leaf mould or compost in autumn to help conserve moisture and feed the roots. Leave plants undisturbed once established, and remove old foliage only after it has fully died back.

    Avoid planting beneath thirsty trees or shrubs that dry out the soil in summer.
    • Humans/Pets: Ornamental bulbs - not to be eaten