Speckle Wood-lily
Clintonia umbellulata
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part shade
Water
medium
Size
6"–12" H × 6"–12" W
Bloom
May, Jun
Native to
GA, KY, MD, NC and 7 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Speckle wood-lily is a charming native wildflower that produces clusters of small white flowers above glossy, broad leaves in late spring. This woodland perennial stays compact and well-behaved, forming small clumps that spread slowly over time. It thrives in partially shaded areas with consistent moisture.
In an HOA neighborhood
Speckle Wood-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.
- Appears too wild or weedy for formal landscapes
- Small size makes it look like an unwanted wildflower
- May go completely dormant and disappear seasonally
Wildlife value
The flowers attract native bees and beetles during the May-June bloom period. The plant provides modest nectar resources for pollinators in shaded garden areas.
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 Speckle Wood-lily fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.