Dutchman’s Breeches

Dicentra cucullaria

This spring ephemeral produces fern-like, deeply cut leaves and stalks of white, nodding flowers. The flowers are pantaloon shaped, giving the name “Dutchman’s Breeches”. Flowers are fragrant and bloom from April to May. This plant goes dormant by early summer. They’re often found in deciduous woodlands and ravines. Seeds require two seasons of moist and cold stratification. Flowers are visited by long tongued bees.