Virgina Waterleaf!

Hi everyone! 

 
After hiking to our trout release location at Upper Buttermilk I’m inspired to offer our third “fishy plants” post of the spring. So far, we’ve covered Trout Lily and Shadbush.. today’s feature is Virginia Waterleaf (Hydrophyllum virginianum)

Waterleaf is a common plant in forested streamside (riparian) areas this time of year. It’s one of those plants that come up very early and disappear as soon as overhead trees leaf out and block all the light.  It loves moist soils under deciduous trees like sugar maple, beech and yellow birch. 

Just like those trout lilies, this plant is named for the appearance of its leaves, which literally look like they have drops of water on them!  

Its large leaves are deeply toothed and in mid to late spring.  Like parr marks on a trout, the "watermarks,” fade as Waterleaf gets older and  summer comes on. Waterleaf blooms in late spring (May).  By June, each flower is replaced by a seed capsule that splits open to release its seeds. By mid-summer, the visible parts of the plant die back. Underground, however, tough roots and runners are storing up energy for next spring. 

Trout Lily leaf

Waterleaf if a great plant for bees--I see them in the flowers constantly. And this time of year, bees need all the nectar they can get! The plant has also provided food, at times, for humans. The edible leaves are sometimes known as “Indian Cabbage” 

Just like trout lilies, the leaves are the giveaway. 

Once you know what to look for, you’ll certainly find this plant when you head out to explore a gorge or check on your trout release site.

See you at the stream, and don't forget your Facemask!

~Bill