News Release

COLUMBUS, OH -- March may come in like a lion, but April has its wild side too, says the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR). In Ohio's fields and forests, April comes in with wildflowers, making one of the best months of all for viewing some of the state's 2,300 wildflower species.

"Spring wildflowers will soon provide a welcome splash of color in every corner of Ohio," said Allison Cusick, chief botanist with the ODNR Division of Natural Areas & Preserves. "Typically, wildflowers begin blooming in southwest Ohio in early April, then gradually appear elsewhere as spring weather moves northeastward across the state. By mid-April, the entire state will see a wide variety of wildflowers blooming in local parks, meadows, forests and preserves," he said.

While some of Ohio's rarest and most endangered wildflower species are tucked away in the safety of nature preserves, beautiful spring wildflowers also thrive in backyard gardens and neighborhood parks.

"Not all of Ohio's 2,300 wildflower species require a trip to a nature preserve or a state park to be appreciated," Cusick said. "Some of the most beautiful spring wildflowers can be found close to home, in backyards or along a country roadside."

Spring wildflowers most commonly found in Ohio include:

Virginia bluebell -- A trumpet-like flower which blooms during April and May, bluebells are among the most attractive of Ohio's spring wildflowers. The blossoms, which turn from pink to blue as they mature, are commonly found in wet, wooded hillsides and along streams. Bluebells may also be seen along roadways and fence rows.

Virginia bluebell

Toothwort -- The little, white-flowered clusters of toothworts bloom in April and early May in every Ohio county. The wildflower is most commonly seen under oak trees in backyards and community parks.

Toothwort

Common blue violet -- This purplish-blue violet is commonly found in moist, open woods and fields or along roadways. The common blue violet can also be an unwelcome intruder in suburban yards and flower gardens. Violets produce a pleasant aroma.

Virginia bluebell

Spring beauty -- The spring beauty has narrow leaves, and clusters of delicate, white flowers with pink stripes. The flower can be seen across the state in woods, yards and gardens through mid-May.

Spring beauty