Corn-lily
Clintonia borealis
Last reviewed: June 2026
Corn-lily (Clintonia borealis) is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for dogs or cats (aspca.org, last reviewed 2026-05-21). If your pet shows symptoms after eating any plant, call the ASPCA at (888) 426-4435.
Light
part shade
Water
medium
Size
6"–12" H × 8"–15" W
Bloom
May, Jun
Native to
CT, GA, IL, IN and 17 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Clintonia borealis is a charming woodland perennial with broad, glossy green leaves and delicate yellow flowers that bloom in late spring. This low-growing native forms small clumps and produces attractive blue berries in summer, making it an excellent groundcover for shaded areas.
In an HOA neighborhood
Corn-lily takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: low. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Very woodland/wild appearance unsuitable for formal landscapes
- Uncommon plant that HOAs may not recognize as intentional landscaping
- Low height and informal growth habit don't meet typical front yard expectations
Wildlife value
The yellow flowers attract bees and beetles during the May-June bloom period. The blue berries provide food for birds and small wildlife later in the season.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Does Corn-lily fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.