Spring Ephemerals

Spring ephemerals are plants that emerge, bloom, and die back quickly in the spring, often before the tree canopy fully leafs out, allowing them to take advantage of the early-season sunlight. Examples include trilliums, bloodroot, and Virginia bluebells. These plants are typically found in woodland gardens or shaded areas and are valued for their early blooms, which add color and life to the garden when few other plants are active. Spring ephemerals are often used in naturalistic plantings, under trees, or in mixed borders where their brief appearance can be enjoyed as a seasonal highlight. After flowering, the foliage of spring ephemerals dies back, leaving room for later-blooming plants to take center stage. Proper placement and care, including ensuring adequate moisture during their growth period, help ensure that spring ephemerals return year after year.