Spring ephemerals are plants that bloom early in the spring and have a short life cycle. They typically emerge from the ground before the trees fully leaf out, taking advantage of the sunlight that reaches the forest floor. Common examples include trillium, bloodroot, and hepatica. These plants often complete their life cycle within a few weeks, producing flowers and seeds before the warmer weather arrives. These plants are crucial for local ecosystems, providing early food sources for pollinators like bees and butterflies. Their rapid growth and reproduction help maintain biodiversity in forest habitats. Spring ephemerals also play a role in soil health by stabilizing the ground and preventing erosion during the rainy season.