Squirrel Corn (Dicentra canadensis)

Family: Poppy Family (Papaveraceae)

Other Names: Bleeding Heart

Origin: Native

Historic First Bloom Seen: March 31*

GPS For Stand:

Interesting Facts: The foliage of this plant is almost identical to that of Dutchmans Breeches (Dicentra cucullaria), however, the flower of the Squirrel Corn appears much more heart-shaped than that of the Dutchmans Breeches. The two species are often seen blooming right next to each other in the deep woodland areas of the preserve. The common name comes from the root corms (tubers) that resemble kernels of corn. This, and the habit of squirrels digging for food combined to form the common name.

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