Carolina Spring Beauty

(Claytonia caroliniana)

Carolina Spring Beauty (Claytonia caroliniana)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Claytonia caroliniana, commonly known as Carolina Spring Beauty, is a deciduous perennial herb native to rich, moist deciduous woodlands and forest clearings of Eastern North America. It typically grows to about 6 inches tall and is one of the earliest spring ephemerals, blooming from March through June. The plant emerges from spherical underground tubers, which allow it to quickly sprout and bloom before the overhead tree canopy fully develops. The delicate flowers are notable for their five pink and purple petals, each with dark pink veins that create a striking striped effect. After flowering, the foliage withers, leaving the tubers dormant until the next spring.

Carolina Spring Beauty is valued for its early spring blooms, which provide a welcome splash of color after the winter months. It is often used in woodland gardens, naturalized areas, and as a ground cover under deciduous trees. While it is said to prefer full sun, it actually thrives in partial to full shade, mimicking its natural woodland habitat. It requires medium amounts of water and well-drained, humus-rich soil. This plant is generally low-maintenance, but it can be sensitive to overly dry conditions and may not flower if summer droughts occur.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb
  • Height: 0.3-0.5 feet
  • Width: 0.1-0.3 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: Pink, White
  • Flowering Season: Spring
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Medium

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Butterfly Garden, Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption., Low Maintenance, Water Garden

Natural Habitat

Rich, moist deciduous woodlands and forest clearings

Other Names

Common Names: Good Morning Spring, Rose Elf, Wide-Leaved Spring Beauty, Claytonie De Caroline, Claytonie Feuille-Large

Scientific Names: , Claytonia caroliniana, Claytonia caroliniana var. caroliniana, Claytonia caroliniana var. lewisii, Claytonia caroliniana f. latifolia, Claytonia caroliniana f. ovata, Claytonia dilatata, Claytonia latifolia, Claytonia spatulata, Claytonia virginica var. latifolia,

GBIF Accepted Name: Claytonia caroliniana Michx.