Even with the crazy weather here in Illinois, the spring beauties (Claytonia virginica) are blooming. A sure sign of spring. They don’t seem to be as numerous as most years but at least they are blooming.

These small flowers grow in all counties in Illinois and much of the eastern United States. They grow mainly in wooded areas but will also pop up in shaded areas in lawns.

Blooms last 1-2 months, mostly gone by mid summer. The tubers are edible and are compared to a radish or potato but are said to taste closer to a chestnut.