Wildflowers of NC

Oconee Bell
Shortia galacifolia

Oconee Bell

Blooms March to April


This is a rare flower of the southern Appalachians found only in a few locations in the mountains of NC, SC and GA., in moist woods along streams. Though it has a very limited range in the wild it grows well in gardens and is commercially available.

Just a simple flower so small and plain
With a pearly hue and a little known name
But the yellow birds sing when they see it bloom
For they know that spring is coming soon.

(From "Acony Bell", by Gillian Welch and David Rawlings)

Shortia galacifolia
NC range of Shortia galacifolia