ITIS and USDA lists two subspecies (subsp. harperi is considered a "race" by some as the differences are minor (morphology of the capsules and stigma lobes (not grooved vs. grooved)
subsp. americanum: throughout most of NE. Capsule apex rounded, truncate, or short-apiculate; stigma lobes erect, not grooved;
subsp. harperi: in some counties of n AL and surrounding area. Capsule apex distinctly apiculate; stigma lobes recurved, grooved distally.
Called Trout Lily for the leaves whose mottling looks like a Brook Trout. Dog-toothed Violet because the bulb is the shape of a dog's tooth. Slow to mature, spreads more from runners than seeds. Sterile for first seven years during which it only sends up a single leaf. After maturity, two leaves and a single stem which is initially prostate before becoming erect with a nodding flower with six recurved yellow petals, which can have red markings.
