Dog's Tooth Violet - Early spring, near Lime Valley trailhead

Dog's Tooth Violet grows under forest trees, it is an early spring plant. Just like Bloodwort (an Ephemeral), it must grow very quickly and grow before the tree's start leafing out, because once the trees have leaves, they block out the vital sunlight and the growing season is done for the Dog's Tooth Violet.

The term "Violet" for this plant is a misnomer. It is, in fact, a member of the orchid family. The name "Dog's tooth" comes from a description of the root, which does, indeed, resemble the name.

Contrary to the looks of the picture above, the plant is very small, I think the flowers are about the size of a pencil eraser. You'll find them just east of the Lime Valley Road trail entrance, I don't remember seeing them anywhere else, although it makes sense that they may be along the trail throught the Sakatah State Park. Finding them is a real treasure!

Wikipedia Indicates that this plant may not be native to Minnesota, having been brought in from Europe - Certainly within the realm of possibility.

Click here for Wikipedia Article on Dog's Tooth Violets