Gillenia trifoliata (Bowman's Root)

Gillenia trifoliata, also called Bowman's root, is a clumping native wildflower found in medium-dry rocky soils across much of the mid-Atlantic, from Georgia all the way up to Ontario, making it an especially good choice for mountainous areas; Bowman's root's typical habitat makes it an excellent pick in the home garden for planting on slopes or in poor rocky soils.

Growing to a manageable height of only 2-4' tall, though occasionally spreading to form clumps up to 3' wide, Gillenia trifoliata is well-regarded for its airy, 5-petaled white flowers which are produced on showy red stems above the bulk of the plant's foliage. Flowers bloom from mid spring to summer, and attract a wide variety of pollinators and butterflies; though the floral display may end in summer, the show doesn't end there, with Bowman's root's leaves turning to beautiful shades of orangey-reds in the autumn. Gillenia trifoliata is hardy once established, but tolerates a variety of light levels as well as a variety of soil types, including nutrient-poor and clay-rich soils.