SafePlants

Virginia Springbeauty (Claytonia virginica)

The Virginia springbeauty, scientifically known as Claytonia virginica, is also commonly called Eastern spring beauty or fairy spud. It's known for being one of the first wildflowers to emerge in spring.

Considerations for Pets

• The text mentions that the entire plant, from root to blossoms, is edible. While this doesn't necessarily indicate toxicity, it's always best to supervise pets around any plant material, especially if they are prone to eating plants.

Considerations for Children

• The plant is sometimes called "fairy spud" because of its edible corms, which resemble small potatoes. While the text does not imply toxicity, it's prudent to supervise children around plants with edible parts to prevent accidental ingestion of other potentially harmful plants.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Claytonia virginica
• Common Names: Virginia springbeauty, Eastern spring beauty, fairy spud, Narrow-leaved spring beauty, Good Morning Spring, Grass Flower, Mayflower
• Family: Montiaceae (also listed as Portulacaceae in some sources)
• Synonyms: C. grandiflora

Distribution and Habitat

• Claytonia virginica is native to eastern North America.
• It is commonly found in moist woods, dry open areas, and even lawns.
• Its range extends to southern and western New England.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• It's a small, low-growing, herbaceous perennial, typically reaching 3 to 12 inches in height.
• It's described as a spring ephemeral forb, growing only 3 to 6 inches.
• The plant grows from a small corm.
• It has succulent foliage.
• Flowers are about ¾ inch across, with 5 pale pink to white petals with darker pink veins. Rarely, flowers may be yellow or orange.
• It produces racemes of pink-tinged white flowers.

Quirky Facts

• The common name "fairy spud" refers to its edible corms which resemble small potatoes.
• The genus name Claytonia was assigned to honor a Colonial plant collector and tobacco farmer in Virginia.