Columbine
(Aquilegia canadensis)

Description: The flower has five petals which project backwards and taper to long spurs. Each spur contains nectar which hummingbirds can access with their tongues. Columbines thrive in the partial shade along trails.

Habitat: Prefers the edges of woodland, and sandy soils rather than rich humus soils.

Height: 70 cm

Flowering: May - June

Purple Trillium
(Trillium erectum)

Description: The flower tends to droop a little, in contrast to the more erect orientation of the White Trillium. Flowers produce an unpleasant smell which attracts flies and beetles.

Habitat: Mature deciduous woodland.

Height: 30 cm

Flowering: April - May

Prairie Smoke
(Geum trifolium)

Description: A plant of dry open meadows and prairies. A species that is being re-introduced to restored prairie sites in and around Toronto.

Habitat: Prairies.

Height: 40 cm.

Flowering: May - June

Rose Twisted-stalk
(Streptopus roseus)

Description: At first glance it looks like Solomon Seal, with palm-like leaves on a zig-zag stem, but the bell-like flowers hanging from the stem are pink.

Habitat: Conifer and mixed woods.

Height: 40 cm

Flowering: May - June

Spring Beauty
(Claytonia virginica)

Description: The delicate flowers striped with dark pink, are truely ephemeral and last just a few days. Flowers close when temperatures drop at night and on cloudy days.

Habitat: Rich, deciduous woodland.

Height: 10 cm

Flowering: April