Hepatica acutiloba Plant Identification (Flower, Leaf, Care, Uses)

Family – Ranunculaceae

Stems:

N/A

Leaves:

Pedicel.

Inflorescence:

N/A

Flowers:

Flowering – March – April.

Habitat – Rich woods, rich soils of rocky slopes, base of bluffs.

Origin – Native to North America.

Other information – This species can be found mainly in the northern half of Alabama. The plant is easy to identify becasue of its pointed, three-lobed leaves, and distinctive flowers. The plant blooms very early and is easily seen against the early spring forest floor.
The genus name Hepatica derives from the Greek “hepa(t)” meaning “the liver” referring to the shape of the leaves resembling a human liver.
The species epithet acutiloba derives from the Latin “acut” meaning “sharp, pointed” and he Greek “lob” meaning “a lobe” referring to the pointed lobes of the leaves.

Alabama Distribution:

Photographs taken at Whetstone Conservation Area, Callaway County, MO., 3-19-04, and at the Walls of Jericho, AL., 3-4-06.