Hi, Dr. Hill,
I came across this plant in semi-open woods in the SC Fall Line on Feb. 21, 2016. It was growing on a gentle downhill slope that was pretty moist due to rainwater runoff toward a small stream. I’m hoping it’s native and would enjoy knowing what it is.
Thank you.
Diane
Hi Diane,
your plant is a member of the genus Sanicula, and because of the location is is very likely Sanicula smallii. It later flowers with small greenish flowers and is in the parsley family. It is certainly a native plant. Some pictures of it in flower can be found here: http://www.missouriplants.com/Greenalt/Sanicula_smallii_page.html
Sincerely,
Steven R. Hill, Botanist, SCNPS