A mature hepatica blooming in spring is a welcome site. The flower color varies from blue to pink to white, but early pollinators will appreciate them in any hue. Roundlobed hepatica will need some summer shade and likes loamy, well-drained soil. The leaves unfurl shortly after the plants have flowered and are usually bright green. As the year progresses, they darken and by winter may be brownish or maroon but are still photosynthesizing.

Uses: bees, early flowers, medicinal

Bloom time: March - May

Height: 4 to 8 inches

Space: 8 to 12 inches

Sun: Medium shade to shade

Moisture: Average, well-drained