Podophyllum peltatum (mayapple)

One of the biggest of the spring ephemerals, this impressive plant bursts from the ground, bears a nodding white flower, and then a small green "apple" (which box turtles like to eat) all by the end of May. By July the entire plant has disappeared, not to be seen again until the following spring. Mayapple grows best in a partly shady, moist but well-drained spot rich in organic matter. If it likes its spot if will spread and makes a great groundcover 18" high - for half the growing season.