CHARACTERISTICS/FEATURES:  The hepatica is found in Nova Scotia to Manitoba, to the United States.  The colors of the flower can be bluish- purple, pink, or white.  The leaves are 3-lobed and broad, and the stalks are hairy.

USES:  The hepatica was used to cure liver diseases, or the supposed symptoms like cowardice, freckles, or indigestion.  Settlers used a Native American liver leaf.

FOLKLORE:  The  hepatica is a symbol of quick cure, and confidence.  When farmers would see blossoms of the hepaticas in the spring, they knew that it soon would be time to start planting.  European liverleaf once highly reputed as a liver tonic and remedy. It has been disused medicinally.  Greeks called the  plant hepar, meaning "liver," and used it for liver symptoms.