Dutchman’s Breeches Dicentra cucullaria |
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Dutchman’s Breeches Dicentra cucullaria Dutchman’s Breeches This wildflower blooms in rich woods from April to May. The four to ten Dutchman’s Breeches flowers are attached to a leafless stalk. It is a member of the Poppy Family. The scientific name Dicentra comes from the Greek meaning “two spurred”. Nectar pockets inside the two spurs or petals have tubes leading to them. The proboscis of the early bumblebee is long enough to reach the nectar. Two other petals protect the anthers and stigma and the flower has two small sepals. Cucullaria is from the Latin meaning “hooded”. Close-up - Dutchman’s Breeches Flower
The small white flowers resemble pairs of pantaloons or breeches that have been hung up to dry. Dutchman’s Breeches Leaves
The divided bulbs are covered with little scales. They and the leaves contain a toxic alkaloid. Dutchman’s Breeches Roots
Seeds develop in a long, slender, pointed pod with two parts in it. It contains from ten to twenty seeds. Dutchman’s Breeches Seeds
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