Coefficient of Conservatism:
9
Coefficient of Wetness:
3
Wetness Index:
FACU
Physiognomy:
Nt P-Forb
Status:
SC
C. Peirce
Rich deciduous forests, especially on floodplains, and well-drained slopes above floodplains.
An attractive, unusual plant, blooming early, though the leaves persist throughout the growing season. Uncommon and local, though often abundant where found, Jeffersonia is typically closely associated with major river systems and their tributaries; in Michigan the Black, Grand, Huron, Maumee (Bean Creek), Rouge, Saginaw, and St. Joseph Rivers. However, the distribution has large gaps, even in the river systems from which it is known.
The flowers are open only briefly, and very early, often before mid-April. The petals are somewhat variable in number, typically from 7-10 (often 8).