Blink and you might miss them—spring ephemerals are the fleeting stars of the early-season garden. These underappreciated wonders burst into bloom just as the snow melts, offering a quiet but magical show before fading away for the rest of the year.

So, what exactly is a spring ephemeral? Simply put, they're plants that complete their entire above-ground life cycle in a matter of weeks, typically before the trees leaf out and shade the forest floor. They pop up early, bloom brightly, and then retreat underground, storing energy in their roots until next year. Think of them as nature’s version of a limited-time offer.

In Upstate New York and the Finger Lakes region, we’re lucky to have several native ephemerals that thrive in shady, woodland-style gardens. Trillium, with its elegant three-petaled flowers, is a true native gem. Trout Lily carpets the ground with cheerful yellow blooms and mottled leaves that resemble—you guessed it—trout. Virginia Bluebells offer dreamy clusters of bell-shaped flowers that shift from pink buds to sky-blue blossoms. And don’t overlook wild ginger, a ground-hugging plant with heart-shaped leaves and quirky, hidden flowers that pollinators adore.

These plants don’t just look pretty—they support native pollinators and contribute to a healthy woodland ecosystem. Plus, once they die back, there’s plenty of room for summer perennials to take the stage.

If you’ve got a shady spot and a bit of patience, consider adding a few spring ephemerals to your garden. They’re like nature’s little secret—and you’ll be in on it every spring.