Bluebead Lily - Clintonia borealis
Clintonia borealis, or Bluebead Lily, is a perennial wildflower native to Michigan and the UP. It slowly makes colonies and can be an effective part of a native shade groundcover, especially under pines or in sandy soil. This lily has lush foliage topped by stalks with striking yellow flowers, but the real drama comes from the small cluster of shiny blue berries that follow. Berries are not edible but some sources report the leaves can be used by humans. Deer resistant.
Bluebead Lily prefers (and spreads best in) shade and rich moist soil, but it will tolerate part shade and sandy, medium-dry soil. Pairs well under pines with Canada Mayflower, Starflower, Bigleaf Aster, and Bunchberry. In woods with more moisture, it pairs well with White Twisted Stalk, Sarsaparilla, White Baneberry, Spikenard, Longstalk Sedge, and Zig Zag Goldenrod.