Dicentra canadensis (common names: Squirrel-corn)
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By DiOhio
Dicentra canadensis (aka Squirrel-corn)
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Joined 12 Mar, 2008
Perry County, Ohio
In Diohio's garden
This native spring wildflower is often confused with Dutchman's Breeches which grows in a similar habitat and often side by side. Leaves of the two plants are nearly identical, but Squirrel-corn's flowers are heart-shaped. It's common name comes from the yellowish root nodules which resemble corn and which squirrels often dig up for food. It can be pollinated only by large bumblebees with a long mouthpart. Closely related to the Bleeding Heart (D. spectabilis), a common garden flower. Another spring wildflower favorite.
Also called Turkey Corn, Ladies and Gentlemen, Lyre Flower and Colicweed. The Onondaga called this species Ghost Corn, believing that it was "food for spirits". In the past this plant was used as a tonic and to treat syphilis.