April Showers Bring May Flowers: Pittsburgh’s Spring Blooms

Spring in Pittsburgh is a time where the cold, gray days of winter give way to warmer temperatures and bursts of color. The old saying, "April showers bring May flowers," is especially true in this time. Rain in early spring helps nourish the soil, leading to the bloom of many beautiful flowers and trees. From city parks to suburban gardens, Pittsburgh comes alive with color in April and May.

Below are some of the flowers that help Pittsburgh come to life during the spring months.

Eastern Redbuds

One of the first trees to bloom in Pittsburgh is the Eastern redbud. These small trees produce bright pinkish-purple flowers that cover their branches before the leaves appear. The Pittsburgh Redbud Project, launched in 2016, has planted thousands of these trees along the city’s rivers, making them a common sight near Point State Park and the Three Rivers Heritage Trail.

Serviceberry Trees

Serviceberry trees bloom in early spring with delicate white flowers. These trees are important for wildlife because their blossoms provide nectar for pollinators, and later in the season, they produce berries that birds love to eat. Even though they are beautiful and useful, serviceberry trees are not as commonly planted in landscaping as they could be.

Trilliums

Trilliums are native wildflowers that grow in wooded areas like Frick Park and Schenley Park. These plants have three petals and are usually white, but some species have red or purple flowers. Trilliums prefer rich, moist soil and often grow in large clusters, covering the forest floor like a white carpet in the spring.

Dwarf Larkspur

Dwarf larkspur is a deep purple flower that gradually fades to pink or white as it ages. It grows in moist forests and can be spotted in places like Bear Run Nature Reserve. This wildflower is a favorite of hummingbirds, which are attracted to its bright color and nectar.

Writing Contributor: Cadence Guckert

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