Sharp-lobed Hepatica
Early spring perennial reaching 8-20 cm tall. Features three-lobed evergreen leaves and blue to purple flowers blooming before new leaves emerge. Prefers rich, well-drained woodland soils and partial shade. Forms small colonies slowly through rhizomes. Important early nectar source. Suitable for woodland gardens and naturalizing in deciduous shade. Native to eastern North America.
Plant Details
Bloom Colour: Blue to Purple (occasionally white)
Bloom Time: Early Spring
Sun Requirements: Part-Shade to Shade
Moisture: Moist-Drained
Phenology: Previous year's evergreen leaves persist through winter. Flowers emerge directly from ground March-April before new leaves. Blue to purple flowers appear on hairy stems. New leaves emerge after flowering May-June. Seeds mature and disperse June-July.
Wildlife Value: Early nectar source for native bees, flies, and early butterflies; important early spring food for pollinators; seeds have elaiosomes attractive to ants for dispersal
Habit Over Time: Flowers emerge early spring before new leaves develop. Evergreen leaves provide year-round interest. Forms slowly expanding colonies through rhizomes and ant-dispersed seeds.
Height: Short (3-8 inches)