Pheasant's eye (Adonis aestivalis)

Also known as: Summer adonis

Pheasant's eye, or Adonis aestivalis, belongs to the buttercup family and is recognized for its striking orange-red petals with a central dark purple ring. Native to Southern Europe, it has spread extensively in American pastures. This plant is toxic to pigs and horses.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting Toxicity

Attributes of Pheasant's eye

Lifespan

Annual, Perennial, Biennial

Plant Type

Herb

Plant Height

20 cm to 1 m

Spread

15 cm to 20 cm

Leaf Color

Green

Flower Size

1.5 cm to 3.5 cm

Flower Color

Red

Images of Pheasant's eye

Quickly Identify Pheasant's eye

Vivid red flowers with a dark basal spot resembling a pheasant's eye.

Feathery, finely dissected foliage giving a delicate appearance.

Buttercup-like waxy petals in red-purple, scarlet, orange, or yellow.

Distinctive purple-black anthers in 1-2 inch (2.5-5 cm) diameter flowers.

Erect, elongated cluster of green, cone-shaped seed pods with 10-15 achenes.

Scientific Classification of Pheasant's eye

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Ranunculales

Family

Buttercup

Genus

Pheasant's eyes

Species

Pheasant's eye

Planting and Growing of Pheasant's eye

Care Difficulty

Easy

Watering Schedule

Every 2 days

Sunlight Requirements

Full sun

Sunshine Duration

6-10 hours

Ideal Temperature

60-75℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

6.5-7.5

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Plastic, Ceramic

How to Water Pheasant's eye?

For Adonis aestivalis, ensure that the soil is saturated but does not become waterlogged. Typically, around 200 milliliters should suffice for each watering session, allowing the soil to partially dry out between waterings, thereby maintaining optimal moisture levels.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Pheasant's eye? ›

What should I do if my Pheasant's eye is not getting enough water? ›

What are the symptoms of an overwatered Pheasant's eye? ›

How to save an overwatered Pheasant's eye? ›

What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Pheasant's eye?

Sunlight Requirements: Full sun, Partial sun

Duration of light: 6 to 8 hours

For Adonis aestivalis, providing 6 to 8 hours of full to partial sun is ideal. This range ensures the plant achieves optimal energy for blooming and sustaining its health.

How should Adonis aestivalis be positioned for optimal growth? ›

What are the ideal hours of sunlight for Adonis aestivalis? ›

How can I adjust the light conditions for Adonis aestivalis indoors? ›

More About Sunlight Requirements Techniques→

What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Pheasant's eye?

Ideal Temperature: 60 ~ 75℉

The ideal temperature range for Adonis aestivalis is between 60°F and 75°F. This range facilitates optimal photosynthesis and growth, ensuring that the metabolic functions are carried out efficiently. Temperatures within this range promote healthy foliage and vibrant blooms, aligning with the plant's natural habitat.

What Soil is Best for Pheasant's eye?

Soil type: Sandy soil, Loam, Sandy loam

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

Adonis aestivalis thrives in well-draining soils since it prevents waterlogging which can cause root rot. Sandy soils or loams are ideal, allowing excess water to drain efficiently and providing the roots with ample oxygen. This plant prefers neutral to slightly alkaline soil conditions. Maintaining a pH between 6.5 and 7.5 ensures that the soil nutrients are available and easily absorbed by the plant, promoting healthy growth and vibrant blooms. To support its growth and flowering, Adonis aestivalis benefits from nutrient-rich soil. Organic matter and compost can be added to enhance soil fertility, ensuring the plant receives essential nutrients for thriving.

How to Fertilize Pheasant's eye?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

For Adonis aestivalis, use a balanced fertilizer with a ratio of 10-10-10. If opting for liquid fertilizer, dilute it to half strength and apply it lightly to avoid overwhelming the roots.

How to Prune Pheasant's eye?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer

Begin by examining your Adonis aestivalis for any dead or damaged stems. Using clean, sharp pruning shears, gently clip these at their base. Pruning should focus on removing any brown or faded flowers to encourage new blooms. Always cut at an angle to prevent water accumulation, which can lead to rot. After the initial removal of dead growth, consider shaping the plant for better aesthetics. Aim to keep the plant open, which allows sunlight and air to penetrate it, promoting healthier growth. Trim the outer branches symmetrically for a balanced appearance. More About Pruning Techniques→

How to Propagate Pheasant's eye plant?

Propagate Time: Early spring, Spring

Begin by filling the seed tray with a well-draining potting mix. Sow Adonis aestivalis seeds thinly across the surface, lightly pressing them into the soil rather than covering them too deeply. Water gently to moisten.

After sowing, ensure the seeds remain consistently moist. Covering the tray with a plastic lid or cling film could help retain humidity, crucial for germination, but avoid excessive watering which could lead to rot.

Place the seed tray in a bright area, but out of direct sunlight which could scorch the seedlings. Light facilitates germination and helps seedlings develop into strong plants.

More About Propagating Techniques→

How to Repot Pheasant's eye plant?

Repotting frequency: Every 2 years

Adonis aestivalis should be repotted when you notice roots poking out of the drainage holes or the plant seems to be outgrowing its current pot. Spring and early summer are optimal times as the plant is in active growth and can recover quickly from transplanting.

Select a pot that is one size larger than its current container, ensuring it has adequate drainage holes. Opt for a material like terracotta, which allows for good airflow. This prevents water logging and promotes healthy root development.

Choose a well-draining, sandy loam soil that replicates the plant's natural habitat. This type of soil prevents root rot and ensures necessary nutrients are available during the growing seasons.

Toxicity

Ingestion

WARNING

The judgment on toxicity and danger is for reference only. We DO NOT GUARANTEE any accuracy of such judgment. Therefore, you SHALL NOT rely on such judgment. It is IMPORTANT TO SEEK PROFESSIONAL ADVICE in advance when necessary.