Sharp-lobed Hepatica

Sharp-lobed hepatica is an attractive wildflower of the deciduous forest understory. It differs from the closely-related blunt-lobed hepatica (Anemone americana) in having more acutely pointed leaf lobes. Sharp-lobed hepatica roots were used by the Chippewa as a charm on traps for mammals, and the Iroquois used it in a compound given to forest runners to relieve shortness of breath.

Soil type: slightly alkaline

Soil moisture: moist, well-drained, humus-rich soil

Sun exposure: partial shade to full shade sun exposure

Height: 3 to 6 inches

Bloom Color: white, pink, lavender, bluish, or purple

Bloom Time: Spring

Benefits: Primarily pollinated by bees, but butterflies, moths, flies, and beetles may also visit later in spring. 

(Sources: mortonarb.com / leavesforwildlife.com /vplant.org / inaturalist.org, gobotany.nativeplanttrust.org)