Spring ephemerals are one of nature's first signs of spring in the Smokies. They emerge just as winter begins to loosen its grip, and some can be seen popping out of the ground as early as February, March and into April. In lower elevations, they dwindle by May and are gone by June, but in higher elevations, where they bloom later, they can be found into early summer.

These specialized plants are adapted to the rhythm of the seasons, anticipating a brief window of time when sunlight, moisture, and soil nutrients are all at high levels and deciduous trees of the overstory have not leafed out to shade the smaller plants below.

Take a look at some familiar spring ephemerals of the Smokies in this short video. You may even have these or their relatives where you live.