This spring wildlflower can be found in mesic woodlands. It produces its flowers, which can be a light purple or white, before its leaves start to form. It has lobed leaves that are dappled with lighter green or white spots. In the fall, the leaf will turn a red or brown and persist until it is time for the plant to bloom again. It is found with Carex jamesii, Geranium maculatum, and Phlox divaricata. It is an important nectar an dpollen source early in the spring.