Mayapple
Podophyllum peltatum
Photo courtesy April Moore, Lady Bird Wildflower Center
Summary
What are those little umbrellas you see sprouting up in the spring woodlands? Unlike most wildflowers, it’s the leaves of mayapple that make the biggest impression. You’ll have to look more closely to find the small white flowers sheltered underneath, which develop into yellow or pale green fruits–the ‘apples’ of the common name.
When sited in shady rich soil, mayapple will happily spread to form colonies in your woodland garden.
More Details
FAMILY
Berberidaceae (Barberry)
BLOOM TIME
April-May
FLOWER
White
MATURE SIZE
1-2 feet
LIGHT REQUIREMENT
Part-shade, shade
SOIL CONDITIONS
Moist
NATIVE STATUS
PA Native
Ecosystem Connections
Mayapple flowers are pollinated by bumblebees and other bees with long tongues. Wildlife such as opossums, raccoons, squirrels and other fruit-loving animals may eat the ripe fruits.