Dutchman's Breeches

Dicentra cucullaria

Family Fumariaceae

Brief Description: Plant has yellow-green leaves, two per stem, which are broadly triangular. Flowers in a terminal raceme of nodding white flowers with yellow at the ends. The common name stems from the shape of the fused petals.

Blooms from April to June.

Geographic Range: From Nova Scotia and east Quebec to Northern Minnesota: south to Georgia, Arkansas and Kansas: also in areas of Washington, Oregon and Idaho.

Habitat: Rich woods

Garden Use: Can be nicely combined with Bloodroot and other short-lived spring flowers in shade gardens.

Historic Uses: This plant is one of the most important love charms of the Menomini Indians. If a girl catches the scent as directed by her young courter, she will follow him wherever he goes.