Sharp-Lobed Hepatica (Hepatica acutiloba )

Family: Buttercup Family (Ranunculaceae)

Other Names: Noble Liverwort, Herb Trinity, Liverwort

Origin: Native

Historic First Bloom Seen: March 21*

GPS For Stand: N 39°04.657' W 84°24.987'

Interesting Facts: Named for its liver-like foliage, this is one of the earliest blooming native wildflowers. The purple-red leaves of this plant are visible all year. It is adapted to close its petals and droop during a late winter snowstorm when potential pollinators would be hiding as well. The plant produces no nectar, but instead is pollinated by "curious" bees that visit the flower in hopes of a nectar treat.

*Average bloom time is based on a compilation of wildflower bloom times from 1975 to present.