Dutchman’s Breeches
Spring ephemeral perennial reaching 15-30 cm tall. Features finely divided blue-green leaves and distinctive white flowers resembling tiny pants hanging on a line. Grows from clustered bulbs in rich woodland soils and shade. Forms colonies through bulb division. Completely dormant by early summer. Suitable for woodland gardens and spring ephemeral displays. Native to eastern North America.
Plant Details
Bloom Colour: White
Bloom Time: Early Spring
Sun Requirements: Part-Shade to Shade
Moisture: Moist-Drained
Phenology: Emerges from bulb cluster March-April. Finely divided leaves appear with flower stems. White flowers resembling tiny pantaloons appear April-May. Seeds develop in elongated capsules May-June. Entire plant senesces by July, remaining dormant until following spring.
Wildlife Value: Early nectar source for native bees and early spring insects; seeds dispersed by ants; important spring ephemeral component of rich woodland ecosystems
Habit Over Time: Emerges early spring from clustered bulbs. Completes entire life cycle before canopy closure. Spreads through bulb division and ant-dispersed seeds to form expanding colonies.
Height: Short to Medium (6-12 inches)