Spring Ephemerals of the Forest
Spring ephemerals and wildflowers bring color and cheer to the early spring forest, just as the trees are beginning to leaf out. The more you can identify, the more you will appreciate them! Use these photos and our Forest-specific checklist to identify some of the most common and beloved wildflowers that grow in the forest understory. Then, head over to iNaturalist to record your observations and help us collect valuable climate data.
Please note: While foraging is allowed on many DNR properties, due to the Forest’s urban location we encourage you to forage with your eyes (and camera lenses). This helps preserve the forest ecosystem and keeps the diversity of plants and wildlife available for all to enjoy. Learn more about foraging regulations on state properties here.
All images below are courtesy of Kimberly Mackowski/TheParkNextDoor.
These are just a selection of the many species you can find at the Forest — how many more can you identify?
