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General Description: The plant consists of clusters of blue-green, highly dissected basal leaves with long, stem-like petioles, 7-22cm (2 ½ in-9in) long. The flowers are in elongated clusters. Each has four white petals: the outer two are sack-like, 7-9mm (2 ½- 3 1/2in) long, resembling a pair of breeches, hence the common name; the inner two petals are much shorter and spatula-shaped. Two clusters of three stamens each are opposite the outer petals. The fruit is a capsule with shiny black seeds.
General Habitat: Plants are found in mature hardwood forests, frequently on north-facing slopes and near streams. Flowering occurs from March-June, followed by fruits which may persist into July/August.
