Uvularia
Uvularia grandiflora (and U. perfoliata)
Uvularia, commonly called Merrybells or Bellwort, is a graceful North American woodland perennial bearing nodding, twisted, pale yellow bell-shaped flowers on arching stems in early spring. It symbolizes delicacy, hidden grace, and the quiet joy of woodland awakening.
Colchicaceae (Colchicum family)
Early to mid spring (April–May), among the first woodland wildflowers to emerge
Symbolism & Meanings
Key Meanings
Perfect For
Color Meanings
Similar flowers: campanulas and dipteracanthuss also share similar meanings.
Cultural Significance
Uvularia is one of those rare woodland wildflowers whose beauty rewards those who look closely and linger quietly in the forest. Its nodding, twisted yellow bells hang shyly beneath arching stems as if reluctant to be seen — an expression of modest grace in the floral world. In Appalachian folk traditions, the arrival of Merrybells in bloom was a reliable seasonal marker, heralding the full return of spring to the forest floor. The charming common name "Merrybells" evokes the tinkling, cheerful sound of spring itself, and the plant has long been associated with the innocent joy of woodland walks and the annual miracle of renewal.Shop Our Floral Collection
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Physical Characteristics
Natural Habitat
Growing Guide
Sunlight
Partial to full shade; ideal for the woodland understory beneath deciduous canopy
Water
Consistent moisture during the growing season; tolerates some summer dryness once dormant
Soil
Moist, Humus-rich, Well-drained, Slightly acidic (pH 5.5–6.5)
Expert Growing Tips
Plant rhizomes in fall in moist, humus-rich, acidic soil in partial to full shade
Top-dress annually with leaf mould or compost to mimic forest floor conditions
Allow clumps to naturalize undisturbed — they spread slowly and are long-lived
Foliage remains attractive through summer, providing continued interest after flowering
Pairs beautifully with mayapple, trillium, bloodroot, and Virginia bluebells in a spring woodland tapestry
Divide in early spring or fall to propagate, though division is rarely necessary
Uses & Benefits
Ornamental Uses
- Woodland and shade gardens as a spring-blooming ground layer
- Naturalized plantings beneath deciduous trees
- Native plant and wildflower gardens in the eastern United States
- Underplanting with ferns, trillium, and wild ginger for a naturalistic woodland carpet
- Shaded rock gardens and stream-side plantings
Traditional Uses
- Cherokee and other Native American peoples used Uvularia root preparations to treat sore throats, back pain, and as a general tonic
- The name "Uvularia" derives from the Latin uvula, as the hanging flowers were thought to resemble the human uvula — historically this led to its use in folk medicine for throat ailments under the doctrine of signatures
- No significant modern clinical use
Disclaimer: Information provided is for educational purposes only. Consult healthcare professionals before using any plant medicinally.
Further Reading
Frequently Asked Questions about the Uvularia
What is uvularia commonly called?
Uvularia is most commonly known as Merrybells or Bellwort. The large-flowered species (U. grandiflora) is called Great Merrybells or Large-Flowered Bellwort. The name "Merrybells" evokes the nodding, bell-like shape of the flowers and the cheerful feeling of spring woodland walks.
When does uvularia bloom?
Uvularia is one of the earliest spring woodland wildflowers, blooming from April through May. It often emerges while other perennials are still dormant, providing welcome early color in the shade garden alongside bloodroot and Virginia bluebells.
What does uvularia symbolize?
Uvularia symbolizes hidden grace, humility, and quiet joy. Its nodding, shy flowers that hang beneath arching stems embody the idea that the most beautiful things sometimes require patience and a closer look to appreciate fully.
Is uvularia easy to grow?
Yes, Uvularia is a low-maintenance, long-lived perennial for shaded gardens. Plant it in moist, humus-rich, acidic soil beneath deciduous trees and allow it to naturalize undisturbed. Top-dressing with leaf mould annually mimics its natural forest floor conditions and encourages steady growth.
Why is uvularia called bellwort?
Uvularia is called Bellwort because of the shape of its nodding, tubular flowers, which hang downward like small bells from gracefully arching stems. The "wort" suffix is an old English term for plant, so "Bellwort" simply means "bell plant."
What grows well with uvularia?
Uvularia combines beautifully with other spring woodland wildflowers including trillium, mayapple, bloodroot, wild ginger, and Virginia bluebells. For season-long interest, pair it with ferns and hostas, which fill the space elegantly as Uvularia goes dormant later in summer.
Available Colors
Quick Facts
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