State flower of Illinois, Rhode Island, New Jersey, and Wisconsin—one of the most recognized native wildflowers in the U.S.
Produces purple-blue flowers (sometimes white or bicolored) with five petals and darker nectar guides.
Spreads easily by self-seeding and rhizomes, naturalizing in lawns and gardens.
Seeds have elaiosomes, making them ant-dispersed (myrmecochory).
Edible flowers and leaves: used in salads, as candied decorations, or for herbal teas (rich in vitamins A & C).
Host plant for Fritillary butterfly caterpillars.
Extremely cold-hardy and deer-resistant.
Symbolizes faithfulness and humility in folklore.
State flower of Illinois, Rhode Island, New Jersey, and Wisconsin—one of the most recognized native wildflowers in the U.S.
Produces purple-blue flowers (sometimes white or bicolored) with five petals and darker nectar guides.
Spreads easily by self-seeding and rhizomes, naturalizing in lawns and gardens.
Seeds have elaiosomes, making them ant-dispersed (myrmecochory).
Edible flowers and leaves: used in salads, as candied decorations, or for herbal teas (rich in vitamins A & C).
Host plant for Fritillary butterfly caterpillars.
Extremely cold-hardy and deer-resistant.
Symbolizes faithfulness and humility in folklore.
Bloom: mid- to late spring
Habitats: moist to mesic black soil prairies; open woodlands; savannas; wooded slopes along rivers and lakes; woodland edges
Lifespan: perennial
Moisture: moist to mesic
Plant type (height): forb (up to 4 inches)
Requirements: partial sun to light shade (full sun is tolerated if there is sufficient moisture)
Soil: rich clay loam or silt loam with above average amounts of organic matter
