Spring ephemeral wildflowers are the first to bloom after winter. They’re here for a short period of time and then go dormant for the rest of the season. These little beauties only grow in specific ecosystems and conditions, such as floodplains, which makes seeing them even more rare and special!
For example, natural virginia bluebell populations are found almost entirely along the Grand River watershed, mostly in Kent and Ottawa counties. They are fairly numerous, but only in these concentrated clusters. Their dense growing habits and early season foliage can help prevent erosion in the floodplains where they thrive, as well as a stunning visual treat.
A few of our favorite wildflowers include trillium, Virginia bluebells, Dutchman’s breeches, and trout lilies, but there are so many to enjoy!
Where to See Spring Ephemeral Wildflowers in Grand Rapids Parks
Grand Rapids is rich in parks with wildflowers! To get your fill of spring blooms, check out these parks:
- Ken-O-Sha Park
- Plaster Creek Trail
- Bike Park
- Aman Park
- Riverside Parks along Lamberton Creek
You Can Support Spring Ephemeral Wildflowers in Our Parks
Many spring ephemeral wildflowers are threatened or protected species. When invasive species are in parks, ephemeral wildflowers can be pushed out if those invasive plants aren’t managed properly. Management includes hand-pulling those plants and targeted applications of herbicide to ensure the invasive plant does not regrow. When applied correctly by trained ecologists or conservationists, the herbicide does not harm other plants in the area, including the ephemeral wildflowers!
If you’re interested in supporting native spring ephemeral wildflowers, removing invasive species that harm them is a tangible way to make a difference! One of the reasons Aman Park is such a renowned destination for viewing spring ephemerals is because volunteers have been hand-pulling invasive garlic mustard and other plants for decades. We enjoy wildflowers today because of their hard work.
If you’d like to help ensure there are wildflowers in Grand Rapids parks for generations to come, join a conservation workday or make a gift to financially support our park conservation work.
See you out there!
