Also known as merrybells, large-flowered bellwort grows large drooping flowers with long skinny petals. This member of the lily family grows well in shade gardens and makes a beautiful show when planted en masse.
I. Appearance and Characteristics
Uvularia grandiflora, the large-flowered bellwort or merrybells, is a species of flowering plant in the family Colchicaceae.
The native range of Uvularia grandiflora extends from the Appalachians west to the Dakotas, Kansas and Oklahoma, from Louisiana and Georgia in the South to Manitoba, Ontario and Quebec in Canada. So, it is widespread across the eastern mountains, the Great Lakes and the Mississippi Valley. There are also isolated populations along Chesapeake Bay in Maryland.
Growing to 75 cm (30 in) tall by 30 cm (12 in) broad, it is a rhizomatous herbaceous perennial with pendant leaves which are hairy on the undersides. It blooms in mid- to late spring, producing large yellow, solitary or paired, bell-shaped, pendant flowers. The top parts of the plant tend to bend downward due to the weight of the leaves and flowers. The light green stems are round, glabrous, and glaucous and the leaves are perfoliate since the stem appears to come through the leaves at the base. In late summer three capsuled ovaries split open releasing the seeds.
The Latin specific epithet grandiflora means “large flowered”.
This plant differs from Uvularia sessilifolia in that the leaves of the latter grow from the stem and its flowers are smaller. U. grandiflora also differs from Uvularia perfoliata, which occurs in eastern North America. The latter has similar large perfoliate leaves, but the flowers have orange-colored bumps on the petals.
Uvularia grandiflora is a woodland species found in open shade in rich moist woods with calcareous to neutral soils.
Bumblebees, mason bees, halictid bees, and andrenid bees feed from the nectar and collect pollen from the flowers. Deer love to eat these plants. The seeds have attached food bodies called (elaiosome) that are attractive to ants, which collect and redistribute the seeds.
II. How to Grow and Care
Large-flowered bellwort thrives in woodland settings, preferring dappled shade and moist, well-drained soils rich in organic matter. Special care points include avoiding waterlogged conditions which can lead to root rot and ensuring the plant has enough space to spread its slender rhizomes. This species is generally easy to care for, requiring minimal maintenance once situated in its ideal environment.
Sunlight and Soil
Large-flowered bellwort thrives in part shade or full shade in fertile, humus-rich, moist but well-drained soils. It tolerates drought and dry soils.
Watering
Thriving in the understory of deciduous forests, large-flowered bellwort has adapted to environments with moderate moisture and dappled sunlight. This species is accustomed to the natural watering patterns provided by rainfall, which contributes to its preference for consistently moist soil but not waterlogged conditions.
Accordingly, large-flowered bellwort benefits from watering every week to mimic these native habitat conditions. Given its forest floor origins, large-flowered bellwort excels in outdoor settings where it can replicate the humidity and soil moisture levels it naturally prefers. As a flowering plant that relies on consistent hydration, large-flowered bellwort’s bloom vitality is closely tied to regular watering during its growing season.
Fertilizing
For large-flowered bellwort, apply a balanced fertilizer in spring as growth resumes to foster vigor and enhance flowering. Switch to a high phosphorus formula pre-bloom to encourage large, healthy flowers. Quarterly applications at the package-recommended strength suffice, with lighter feeding for established plants. Avoid over-fertilization to prevent root burn and environmental harm. Monitor growth stages and seasonal changes; reduce feeding in dormant periods. For effectiveness, water soil before and after application. Always wear gloves and wash hands post-fertilization.
Propagation
Native to North American woodlands, large-flowered bellwort thrives in shade or part-shade and is cherished for its unique, drooping yellow flowers. Propagation is best achieved through division, which involves carefully separating the rhizomes after the flowering period. Gradually tease apart the clumps, ensuring each new section has sufficient roots and a portion of the stem. Plant these divisions promptly in a moist, well-drained soil rich in organic matter to encourage robust growth. New plants should establish well with consistent moisture and minimal direct sunlight.
How to Grow from Seed
Uvularia grandiflora is difficult to grow from seed, but you can try.
- Seeds need to be planted fresh, and require warmth and moisture. They then need a cold winter period.
- You could mimic nature using a plastic bag.
- Seeds are placed fresh in the bag for around 2 months.
- Keep them in a warm position.
- Then transfer the bag to the refrigerator (NOT THE FREEZER) until spring.
- In spring, after the frosts have gone. Plant them out.
- Or plant them out earlier into a cold frame.
Transplanting
Embrace the sweet spot of late autumn to early spring (S2-S4) for transplanting large-flowered bellwort, ensuring optimal root growth. Choose a partially shaded location with moist, well-drained soil. While doing so, be gentle as large-flowered bellwort are delicate and avoid deep planting.
III. Uses and Benefits
- Ornamental uses
Large-flowered bellwort is a great candidate for borders, cottage gardens, woodland gardens, and naturalized areas.
- Medicinal uses
The Menominee uses this plant for swellings. The Ojibwa are documented to use the root for pain in the solar plexus, which may refer to pleurisy. The Potawatomi mix an infusion of the root mixed with lard and use it as salve to massage sore muscles and tendons.
