12 Wildflowers That Grow in Maine: Identification Guide (With Pictures)
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Maine is home to some of the most beautiful wildflowers in the United States. From vibrant purple and yellow violets to delicate pink lady’s slippers, the blossoms of Maine’s wildflowers are sure to inspire awe.
Whether you’re looking for a splash of color in your garden or just out for a stroll in the woods, you can find these 12 wildflowers growing throughout Maine. Read on to learn more about these stunning blooms!
The 12 Wildflowers That Grow in Maine
1. Purple Violet
| Scientific Name: | Viola palmata |
| Primary Color: | Purple |
| Location: | Open woods, meadows, grassy areas |
Purple violets are some of the most spectacular wildflowers in Maine. This dainty flower usually grows between two and eight inches high and has bright, deep purple petals that give off a sweet fragrance. The leaves of the violet are heart-shaped, adding to the flower’s charm.
These violets can be found growing in open woods, meadows, and grassy areas in Maine during late spring and early summer. The deep purple petals are a beautiful addition to any garden or natural landscape.
2. Yellow Violet
| Scientific Name: | Viola pensylvanica |
| Primary Color: | Bright yellow |
| Location: | Fields, woods, open spaces |
Yellow violets are one of the most recognizable wildflowers in the state. They bloom from April to June and are a great food source for pollinators like bees and butterflies. The flowers typically reach 8 to 12 inches with small leaves at the base. The bright yellow petals are surrounded by darker yellow sepals, giving them an eye-catching appearance.
These cheery flowers grow in fields, woods, and open spaces throughout Maine during the spring season.
3. Sweet White Violet
| Scientific Name: | Viola blanda |
| Primary Color: | White |
| Location: | Woods, meadows, grassy areas |
Sweet white violets are delicate yet gorgeous wildflowers that grow throughout Maine. This flower has five petals with white coloring, giving off a fresh and subtly sweet scent. The leaves of the flower are heart-shaped and larger than those of purple violets.
From late spring to early summer, these beautiful violets can be spotted in woodlands, meadows, and a range of grassy areas. Incorporate them into your garden or wildflower display for an extra dose of charm—the flowers’ white hue will enhance the beauty of any nearby blooms even further!
4. Blue Violets
| Scientific Name: | Viola triloba |
| Primary Color: | Purple-blue |
| Location: | Meadows, fields, woodlands |
Blue violets are a lovely wildflower that grows in Maine during the spring months. This flower’s petals range in color from light to deep blue, depending on the variety. The leaves have an interesting triangular shape, which adds to the flower’s unique beauty.
If you are looking to bring a splash of life and hues into your garden or wildflower display, then search no further than the captivating blooms found in meadows, fields, and woodlands throughout Maine from late April to early May. The vivid petals will surely make an impact.
5. Painted Trillium
| Scientific Name: | Trillium undulatum |
| Primary Color: | White, pink |
| Location: | Woods, moist hillsides |
Painted trillium is a captivating wildflower that blooms throughout Maine during the spring season. This flower has three white petals with deep purple-pink veins running through them, giving them a unique and eye-catching appearance. The flower’s leaves are typically mottled with shades of green, making them easy to spot in the wild.
This dazzling bloom can be found growing in rich woods and moist hillsides throughout Maine. Plant this flower in your garden or landscaping display for a splash of color that will stay beautiful throughout the entire season.
6. Red Trillium
| Scientific Name: | Trillium vasey |
| Primary Color: | Red |
| Location: | Dense woods, moist hillsides |
Like its pink-painted cousin, red trillium is a beautiful wildflower that grows in Maine during the spring season. The unique shape of this flower consists of three red petals and three green sepals. Red trilliums also have leaves with mottled shades of green, making them easy to spot when out exploring.
These flowers can be found growing in cool woods and moist hillsides throughout Maine. Plant them in your garden or wildflower display to bring color and beauty that will last throughout the entire season.
7. White Trillium
| Scientific Name: | Trillium grandiflorum |
| Primary Color: | White |
| Location: | Shady woods, moist hillsides |
You can find the white trillium wildflower blooming throughout Maine during the spring season. The flower’s petals are pure white, giving them an ethereal appearance. The leaves of the flower are mottled with shades of green, making them easy to spot in the wild.
These flowers can be found growing in shady woods and moist hillsides throughout Maine. Adorn your garden or wildflower display with these delicate blooms for a serene look that will last all season long. Be sure to keep an eye out for them when out exploring in the wild.
8. Trailing Arbutus
| Scientific Name: | Epigaea repens |
| Primary Color: | Pink |
| Location: | Woodlands, moist hillsides |
Trailing arbutus is a small but vivid wildflower that blooms throughout the spring season in Maine. These flowers have five petals of a light pink hue, giving them a soft and beautiful appearance. The leaves of the flower have an interesting diamond-shaped pattern that adds to its beauty.
Brighten up your garden or wildflower display by planting these beautiful blossoms that thrive in woodlands and moist hillsides all over Maine! With its vibrant shades, delightful aroma, and lengthy presence in the summertime season, trailing arbutus is sure to be an attractive addition for you and your loved ones.
9. Oxeye Daisy
| Scientific Name: | Leucanthemum vulgare |
| Primary Color: | White |
| Location: | Meadows, roadsides, disturbed habitats |
This summer-blooming daisy is a delightful wildflower that’s easily spotted throughout Maine in meadows, roadsides, and disturbed habitats. This flower has white petals with a yellow center, giving it an elegant appearance that stands out from other blooms. The flower’s leaves are deeply lobed and have a unique pointy shape.
Add a splash of eye-catching colors and an ambiance of enchantment to your outdoor space with the addition of oxeye daisies. Plant these perennials in your garden for a vivid display that will last all summer long, making them the star attraction!
10. Queen Anne’s Lace
| Scientific Name: | Daucus carota |
| Primary Color: | White |
| Location: | Roadsides, meadows, disturbed habitats |
Queen Anne’s Lace is a stunning wildflower that blooms throughout the summer season in Maine. These white blooms have brightly colored yellow centers, making them easily spotted among other flowers. The flower’s leaves are deeply lobed, and the stems of the flower are curly and thin.
Adorn your landscape or wildflower display with these eye-catching blossoms that will add a beautiful and classic touch to your garden. Queen Anne’s Lace also makes a lovely addition to any indoor décor or craft project.
11. Pink Lady’s Slippers
| Scientific Name: | Cypripedium acaule |
| Primary Color: | Pink |
| Location: | Moist woods, bogs |
As Maine’s star lady slippers, pink lady’s slippers are commonly found blooming throughout the state during the late spring season. These delicate flowers have just one or two petals. And yet, they boast an exotic and graceful look. The flower’s leaves are broad and lance-shaped, adding to its beauty.
Pink lady’s slippers will be easy to spot in areas such as moist woods and bogs if you take a leisurely walk around the state. Appreciate the beauty of these captivating flowers all season long for an impressive display of color!
12. Jack-in-the-Pulpit
| Scientific Name: | Arisaema triphyllum |
| Primary Color: | Green |
| Location: | Rich woods, moist areas |
Jack-in-the-pulpit has incredible longevity for a wildflower—its average lifespan is an impressive 25 years! These green-hued flowers have just one or two petals, which you can spot in rich woods and moist areas all over Maine. The flower’s leaves are arrow-shaped and feature dark lines running through them.
Jack-in-the-pulpit is a unique and interesting wildflower to add to your garden or wildflower display. With its vibrant colors and one-of-a-kind look, this flower is sure to become a conversation starter!
Tips for Maine Wildflower Care
Maine is home to some of the most beautiful wildflowers in North America. To ensure that your wildflower garden remains healthy, vibrant, and full of life, follow these tips:
Choose Native Plants
Choosing native plants will guarantee that they can thrive in Maine’s climate. Native plants are well adapted to the climate and soils in your area, so they will require less maintenance and watering than non-native plants.
Provide Adequate Sunlight
Most wildflowers need plenty of sunlight to grow, so be sure to pick a spot with at least 4-6 hours of direct sunlight per day. If you don’t have an area that provides enough sunlight, consider using a reflector to give the plants extra light.
Water Wisely
Wildflowers need to be watered regularly in order to thrive. However, too much water can lead to root rot and disease. Therefore, it’s important to only water when the soil is dry and to avoid overwatering.
Mulch Your Wildflowers
Mulching helps keep the soil moist and will also protect your wildflowers from extreme temperatures. Use a 2- to 3-inch layer of mulch around each plant to help retain moisture and reduce weeds.
Fertilize Sparingly
Wildflowers will benefit from a light application of fertilizer once or twice a year. Choose an organic fertilizer that is low in nitrogen and high in phosphorus for the best results.
Deadhead Bloomed Flowers
Regularly deadheading blooms after they die off will help encourage more blooming and prevent the plants from going to seed (which can spread the wildflower to other areas).
With these tips, your Maine wildflowers will be sure to thrive and bring beauty and color to your garden!
Conclusion
Maine is home to a diverse and colorful array of wildflowers that are sure to bring beauty and life to any outdoor space. With the right care and maintenance, these flowers can provide long-lasting enjoyment throughout the spring and summer months.
Be sure to check out all the different types of Maine wildflowers to add some vibrant colors to your garden and create a one-of-a-kind outdoor oasis.
Also See:
- 15 Wildflowers That Grow in Illinois: Identification Guide (With Pictures)
- 15 Wildflowers that Grow in Kansas: Identification Guide (With Pictures)
Featured Image Credit: photosbymoira, Pixabay
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