Etymology: Claytonia: named for John Clayton (1686-1773), Clerk to the County Court of Gloucester County, Virginia from 1720 until his death, one of the earliest collectors of plant specimens in that state, and described as the greatest American botanist of his day.
Plants: erect, perennial, 3"-6" tall forb; from rounded, vertical, thickened corms
Leaves: one pair on the stem, leaf and stalk 3-8 times as long as wide, stalk obviously distinct from the wider leaf
Flowers: pink, 5-parted, 1/2" wide, stalked, stamens opposite the petals; inflorescence a loose, terminal cluster (raceme); blooms April-June
Habitat: moderate moisture; woods, forests
Conservation Status: Native

Flora of North America: Flora of North America Floristic Rating: Coefficient of Conservatism = 8, Wetland Indicator = FACU USDA Plants Database: Federal Distribution and detailed information including photos Minnesota Dept. of Natural Resources: Rare Species Guide; description, conservation, photos, maps, etc.