Native Habitat:
Moist streambanks, wetlands, and shaded forest edges in western North America, including the Willamette Valley. Prefers consistently damp soils and partial shade.
 
Bloom Time:
April – May
 
Growth Habit & Mature Size:
Perennial herb, 2–4 feet tall, with large, rounded leaves on long petioles. Produces tall, erect flower stalks topped with clusters of small pink flowers before the leaves fully emerge.
 
Light & Soil Requirements:
Partial shade; thrives in moist, rich, well-drained soils. Tolerates seasonal flooding and wet soils.
 
Willamette Valley Native Companion Plants:
Tolmiea menziesii, Camassia leichtlinii, Polystichum munitum, Achlys triphylla, Adiantum pedatum.
 
Urban Garden Function:
Adds bold foliage, dramatic flower spikes, and seasonal interest to shaded urban gardens, rain gardens, and riparian plantings. Ideal for pond edges, streamside plantings, and woodland-inspired landscapes. Works well with ferns, native perennials, and other moisture-loving plants to create a lush, naturalistic understory.
 
Wildlife Supported:
Flowers attract native bees and flies. Large leaves provide shelter for amphibians, insects, and small invertebrates.
 
Historical Use:
Used by Indigenous peoples for food and medicinal purposes; young shoots were sometimes consumed as a vegetable, and the plant was valued for its ornamental appeal.