Virginia Bluebells

Leaf type: Leaves emerge very early in spring and first appear purple but open up as a soft green. They are large, reaching lengths of 4-6 in. They die back as soon as the flowers drop and the weather turns warm, around June.

Bloom description: Buds are pink, but fade to shades of blue as they open. The nodding flowers bloom in clusters and hang like tiny bells.

Garden uses: Most commonly seen growing in moist woods in the northern Ozarks.

Wildlife benefits: An early source of nectar for native bees.