Hepatica americana
Table of Contents
Scientific Classification
| Kingdom: Plantae |
| Phylum: Tracheophyta |
| Class: Magnoliopsida |
| Order: Ranunculales |
| Family: Ranunculaceae |
| Genus: Hepatica |
| Species: Hepatica americana |
Conservation Status
Identifying Features
Hepatica plants can grow to be around 5 inches tall. The leaves are three-lobed, rounded or pointed, and continue to persist on the plant throughout the year. The flowers are white (some pink or lavender) and have 6-10 petal-like speals that are arranged in a cup-like shape. The flowers are attached to a short, hairy stalk that rises above the leaves.
Habitat & Range
Hepatica can typically be found in woods and uplands in rich, moist soil. They are most common in the eastern and central parts of North America, and are less common in western US and Canada.
Behavior
Hepatica plants undergo a period of dormancy during the winter months. Above ground growth (leaves and flowers) may die back, but the plant remains alive underground and will be ready to grow again in the spring.
Life Cycle
Hepatica plants can live for many years and undergo a cycle of growth and dormancy each year. They begin their life as seeds that germinate in the soil. After reaching maturity, the plant produces flowers in spring (April-June) that can develop seeds to be dispersed. During late summer and winter months, Hepatica enter a period of dormancy and wait for re-growth in the spring.
Featured image by James Dake.