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.
Common questions
- How much sun does Turkey-corn need?
- Turkey-corn grows best in part shade conditions.
- When does Turkey-corn bloom?
- Turkey-corn blooms in April and May.
- Where is Turkey-corn native?
- Turkey-corn (Dicentra canadensis) is native to CT, IA, IL, IN and 18 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- What pollinators does Turkey-corn attract?
- Turkey-corn draws bees and flies.
- Is Turkey-corn HOA-friendly?
- Turkey-corn takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
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.
Ready to grow Turkey-corn? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz