Turkey-corn
Dicentra canadensis
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part shade
Water
medium
Size
4"–12" H × 4"–8" W
Bloom
Apr, May
Native to
CT, IA, IL, IN and 18 more states
Pollinators
bees, flies
Turkey-corn is a delicate native wildflower that produces charming white or pinkish heart-shaped flowers in early spring. This small woodland plant emerges early, blooms for several weeks in April and May, then goes dormant by midsummer, disappearing completely until the following spring.
In an HOA neighborhood
Turkey-corn 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.
- Goes completely dormant by midsummer leaving bare soil
- May appear as missing plants or dead spots
- Too ephemeral for maintained front yard appearance
Wildlife value
The early spring blooms provide nectar for native bees and flies when few other flowers are available. This makes it particularly valuable for supporting pollinators emerging from winter dormancy.
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 Turkey-corn fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.