squirrel corn

This native woodland flowering perennial features white, heart-shaped, fragrant flowers. The foliage has a bluish-gray tint, is lacy and almost fern-like in appearance. Being a staple spring ephemeral of our local forests, this perennial blooms early in the spring, and then later the whole plant goes dormant in the summer. Occurring naturally under local forest canopies, Squirrel Corn requires deep shade sites. Squirrel Corn partially gets its name from its small, round, yellow tubers which are just under the soil surface and resemble corn kernels. This plant is commonly confused with the nearly identical and also native Dutchman’s Breeches (Dicentra cucullaria). Like other spring ephemerals, this plant is best paired with other flowering shade plants that bloom in the summer or fall.

Details for Care:

• Soil = Moist, Rich, Loamy

• Sun = Full Shade or Deep Shade

• Height = 3 to 10 inches

• Bloom Time = April to May