Spring Ephemerals

In the Midwest, as winter fades, the forest floor comes alive with spring ephemeral flowers. These plants, with short lifespans, bloom quickly before the trees’ canopy fills in. Among them, trilliums are iconic with their three-petaled flowers, while bloodroots display white blooms and crimson sap. Bluebells, in shades of blue and purple, add color to the woodland carpet. These flowers, though brief, are vital for early-season pollinators and signal the onset of spring. While their beauty is fleeting, it’s worth pausing to appreciate their role in the ecosystem and the natural rhythm of the seasons.

Our favorites include Virginia Bluebells, Dutchman’s Breeches, Bloodroot and Mayapples, all perfect for a woodland theme garden or to fill the void in a hosta garden in early spring.