Uvularia grandiflora - Large-flowered Bellwort

Sizes available: 1 quart

Basics: zones 3-9, 1-2' x 12", partial to full, deciduous shade, cheerful yellow, nodding, elongated bells in mid-late spring over fresh green foliage, prefers a moist, humus-rich woodland soil, and maybe on the lime-y side. Drought tolerant once established. 

Common names: Large-flowered Bellwort, Merrybells, Yellow Bellwort

Family: Colchicaceae

Origin/Distribution: The species is found from Quebec and Vermont south to Georgia and Oklahoma and west to Minnesota. Native to western parts of New England but not Maine.  

Habitat: Occurs in deciduous woodland, open shade, and wooded floodplain (water that moves through seasonally, not standing). Go Botany says it occurs in regions with high pH bedrock, but other sources conflict.

More: This is a somewhat lax, but quite elegant, slowly spreading woodlander. Rhizomatous, and can take some drought, but will go summer dormant if it is too dry. Bumblebees, halictid bees, mason bees, and adrenid bees enjoy the nectar and pollen. Ants are attracted to the nutrient-rich elaiosome attached to the seed and will replant the seed while harvesting it for the elaiosome. According to some, makes a good cut flower. Beautiful in a woodland garden along with ferns, Solomons Seals, Epimediums, Erythroniums and their ilk. Also good in a rock garden with enough moisture and shade. Deer may browse. This plant has been used medicinally (Potawatomi).

Source: Van Berkum

Image credits: Wikimedia Commons