Comparison and Contrast: Narrow-leaved Spring Beauty vs Northern Spring Beauty

Two Visually Similar Spring Ephemerals

Native to the eastern United States, narrow-leaved spring beauty (Claytonia virginica) and Northern spring beauty (Claytonia caroliniana) are spring blooming wildflowers that are easily confused due to their superficial similarities. Both species produce clusters of small, five-petaled flowers that are white or pink, grow in moist woodlands and meadows, and bloom in early spring before the trees leaf out. However, there are several key differences between these two plants that can help you tell them apart.

Habitat and Distribution

Narrow-leaved spring beauty is found throughout the eastern United States and Canada, while Northern spring beauty is more restricted to the northern and central United States. Narrow-leaved spring beauty typically grows in moist woodlands, while Northern spring beauty prefers meadows and prairies.

Leaves

The leaves of narrow-leaved spring beauty are narrow and lance-shaped, while the leaves of Northern spring beauty are wider and more ovate. Narrow-leaved spring beauty also has fewer leaves than Northern spring beauty.

Flowers

The flowers of narrow-leaved spring beauty are white or pink and have five petals that are rounded at the tips. The flowers of Northern spring beauty are also white or pink, but the petals are more pointed. Northern spring beauty also has a longer flowering period than narrow-leaved spring beauty.

Fruit

The fruit of narrow-leaved spring beauty is a small, round capsule that contains several seeds. The fruit of Northern spring beauty is a larger, more elongated capsule that contains more seeds.