Bellwort

Elongated clusters of pale blue flowers with prominent anthers sway on stalks up to 2 feet tall. A relative of this plant, quamash or small camas, was an important food for several Native American tribes and for members of the Lewis and Clark expedition.

This little flower grows throughout the tallgrass prairie region, from Illinois to eastern parts of Manitoba and the Dakotas, and south to eastern Oklahoma. It is compelling to imagine the thoughts of pioneers when they gazed upon these bright lilies during stops along their westward journey.

Solomon's seal grows statewide in moist, rich earth. It is a popular native wildflower with attractive foliage for woodland gardens. The greenish-white flowers dangle like little bells beneath the leaves, under the gracefully arching branches.