Clintonia borealis | blue bead lily

Blue bead lily is a northeast native that can be found growing in dense mats in the forest. It was used medicinally for centuries by Native Americans. Today, it is a delight to foragers who harvest the young leaves in spring.

Grow this spring blooming beauty in the woodland garden where it will form an attractive ground cover. In fall, brilliant blue berries ornament the garden. The flowers and beautiful blue berries are poisonous and should never be eaten. They are, however, adored by birds and chipmunks. 

Clintonia borealis is happiest in organically rich, loamy soil. Please be aware that this perennial is native only in pockets of the eastern United States. It can be difficult to grow successfully in areas where summer temperatures regularly exceed 75 degrees. 

Zones: 3 to 9
Family: Convallariaceae
Type: Perennial
Height: 6 to 15 in.
Spread: 6 to 12 in.
Exposure: full shade to part shade
Soil: average, moist, well-drained
Bloom Time: May to June
Native Range: eastern United States