American Hepatica
Hepatica americana
Last reviewed: September 2026
Hepatica americana is a low woodland forb that flowers from March through May, opening lavender to pink or white blooms before the forest canopy leafs out.
Toxicity unknown
American Hepatica (Hepatica americana) is not listed by the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (opens in new tab) or the other sources we check, so we have no verdict for it either way. Absence from those lists is not a clearance. If your pet shows symptoms after eating any plant, call the ASPCA at (888) 426-4435.
Light
part shade
Water
medium
Size
4"–8" H × 6"–12" W
Bloom
Mar, Apr, May
Native to
AL, AR, CT, DE and 26 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Before you buy
Your city may pay you to plant this
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Hepatica is a charming early spring wildflower that produces delicate white, pink, or blue flowers before the leaves emerge. This low-growing woodland native forms neat clumps with attractive three-lobed leaves that persist through winter. It thrives in shaded areas where many other plants struggle.
Growing American Hepatica
Grow American Hepatica in part shade and medium water. Mature plants reach 4 to 8 inches tall and spread 6 to 12 inches wide. Expect low maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
American Hepatica is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 4 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, foundation, mid zone.
Wildlife value
This plant provides crucial early nectar for bees and beetles emerging in early spring when few other flowers are available.
Common questions
- When does Hepatica americana bloom?
- Hepatica americana typically flowers in March, April, and May, often among the first woodland wildflowers to open in early spring.
- What pollinates Hepatica americana?
- Early season bees and beetles visit Hepatica americana flowers, taking advantage of one of the first nectar and pollen sources available in spring woodlands.
- What growing conditions does Hepatica americana prefer?
- This forb does best in part shade with medium, evenly moist soil, similar to the leaf litter covered forest floor conditions it grows in naturally.
- Does Hepatica americana keep its leaves in winter?
- Its leathery, three lobed leaves often persist through winter in a semi-evergreen fashion before fresh leaves emerge with the spring flowers.
- Is American Hepatica HOA-friendly?
- American Hepatica is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with low maintenance.
These answers were drafted with an AI model from this plant's data. Verify care details with a local expert.
Native range data from the World Checklist of Vascular Plants (Kew). Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
If something looks wrong
Common plant problems, and what to check first
These come up on almost any plant. Each guide lists the likely causes in the order they are worth ruling out, with one thing to check before you act on any of them, and links to the source it came from.
- It is dying right after planting
- Leaves turning yellow
- Wilting even though I watered it
- Brown crispy leaf tips
- Bugs on the plant
Ready to grow American Hepatica? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
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