Today we spotted two of spring’s fleeting treasures emerging in the garden—ephemerals that remind us just how magical this season can be. These early bloomers take advantage of the sunlight before the canopy fills in, offering a short but unforgettable show. Scientific Name: Sanguinaria canadensis

Common Name: Bloodroot

A true woodland gem, Bloodroot greets spring with crisp white petals wrapped around a golden center. Its deeply lobed leaves unfurl dramatically as the flower opens.

The name “Bloodroot” comes from its striking red-orange sap, once used as a natural dye by Indigenous peoples.

Each flower only lasts a day or two—making it a true “blink, and you’ll miss it” moment.

Ants play a role in spreading their seeds (a fascinating process called myrmecochory!).

Scientific Name: Scilla siberica

Common Name: Siberian Squill

Despite its name, it’s not actually native to Siberia—it originates from parts of Russia and Eurasia. It readily naturalizes, often forming sweeping drifts that return year after year. An important early nectar source for pollinators waking up after winter.