Virginia waterleaf

Hydrophyllum virginianum (Virginia waterleaf) gets its name comes from the Greek words hydro meaning water and phyllon meaning lead in reference to markings on the plant leaves which give the appearance of being water spots.

This herbaceous perennial plant is 1-2’ tall, branching sparingly. It hastiny, white to lilac, bell-shaped flowers that bloom from May to June in rounded clusters on top long stalks extending from the upper leaf axils. Virginia waterleaf is locally common in central and northern Illinois, while in southern Illinois it is uncommon or absent. Since it is a native woodland plant, it is commonly found with other woodland species like white baneberry (Actea pachypoda) and wild ginger (Asarum canadensis), both of which can be found in Lurie Garden.