Pheasant's Eye, Summer pheasant's eye
Adonis aestivalis
Family: Ranunculaceae
What it is like
Adonis aestivalis is a ANNUAL growing to 0.3 m (1ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 6. It is in flower in June, and the seeds ripen in July. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees, flies, beetles. The plant is self-fertile. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.
Height (m): 0.3
Where it is found
Cornfields, usually on calcareous soils.
S. Europe, N. Africa.
Conservation Status:
Countries/locations it is found in
How it is used
Food
Rating: 0
Medicine
Rating: 1
The plant is a cardiotonic, diuretic and stimulant. Some caution is advised in the use of this remedy, see the notes above on toxicity. The flowers are considered to be diuretic, laxative and lithontripic.
Cardiotonic: A tonic for the heart.
Diuretic: Acts on the kidneys, promoting the flow of urine.
Laxative: Stimulates bowel movements in a fairly gentle manner.
Lithontripic: Removes stones from the kidney, bladder etc.
Other
Rating:
How it is grown
Grows well in ordinary garden soil. Prefers a moist well-drained soil in sun or semi-shade. A greedy plant inhibiting the growth of nearby plants, especially legumes. Very closely related to A. annua.
Propagating it: Seed - best sown in situ as soon as it is ripe in the autumn, though it can also be sown in situ in the spring.
Best place to grow: Cultivated Beds;
Habit: Annual
Hardiness: 5-9
Growth:
Soil: Light (sandy), medium, heavy (clay)
Shade: Semi-shade, no shade
Moisture: Moist
Things to keep in mind
A toxic principle is present in very small quantities in the plant. It is poorly absorbed so poisoning is unlikely. The plant is poisonous to horses.