Quick answer: Bluebead (Clintonia borealis) is native to 14 states. What's commonly sold under this name is the true wild species. No live listing of the true species was found as of 16 Sep 2026.
Photo: Barnes Dr Thomas G, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Wikimedia Commons (PD)
Where it's native
Listed in the directory as native to these states. Click a state for its full native-plant guide.
Growing conditions
From the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center Native Plant Database.
| Sun | Shade |
|---|---|
| Water | Medium water, Moist |
| Soil | Deep, damp, cold leafmold |
| Bloom | Bloom May-Jun |
| Height | Up to 20 in tall |
| Wildlife value | Chipmunks and birds eat berries |
Berries flagged suspect for toxicity, unknown toxic principle, no documented poisoning cases
Buying it
No live listing of the true wild species was found as of 16 Sep 2026 — that means our last search didn't surface one, not that the plant is unavailable.
No live seed or plant listing found as of 16 Sep 2026. That means our last search didn't surface one — not that the plant is unavailable. Try a regional native-plant nursery.
Quick answers about Bluebead
Where is Bluebead native?
Bluebead (Clintonia borealis) is native to 14 states across the Northeast, Midwest and South. Check your state's page in this directory for the full list of plants native where you live.
When does Bluebead bloom?
Bluebead blooms May-Jun. Exact timing shifts a few weeks with latitude and elevation.
What growing conditions does Bluebead need?
Light: Shade. Water: Medium water, Moist. Soil: Deep, damp, cold leafmold. Mature height: Up to 20 in tall.
Is Bluebead good for pollinators and wildlife?
Yes. Wildlife value: Chipmunks and birds eat berries.
Is Bluebead deer-resistant or drought-tolerant?
Bluebead is tolerates shade.
Is Bluebead toxic?
Berries flagged suspect for toxicity, unknown toxic principle, no documented poisoning cases.
Where can I buy Bluebead?
We haven't found an online listing of the true wild species as of 16 Sep 2026. A regional native-plant nursery or native seed company is your best source; ask for Clintonia borealis by its scientific name.
Similar native plants
Native plants that share growing conditions or range with Bluebead.
- American cranberry Vaccinium macrocarpon
- Hobblebush Viburnum lantanoides
- Steeplebush Spiraea tomentosa
- Eastern teaberry Gaultheria procumbens
- Hairy beardtongue Penstemon hirsutus
- Lowbush blueberry Vaccinium angustifolium
Also listed under
Get the full buying guide
Every pick worth knowing across pollinators, shade, drought and more, in one PDF, with the tradeoffs spelled out. No spam, unsubscribe anytime.