Hepatica nobilis

Hepatica nobilis (commonly called liverleaf, and known as “Norugwi” in Korea) is a small, early-spring wildflower native to Europe and parts of Asia. It belongs to the buttercup family (Ranunculaceae).

This delicate plant typically blooms in late winter to early spring, often emerging while the ground is still cold. Its flowers are usually blue, purple, pink, or white, and grow singly on short, hairy stems. One of its distinctive features is that the flowers often appear before or alongside its three-lobed leaves, which resemble the shape of a liver—hence the name “liverleaf.”

Hepatica thrives in deciduous woodlands, preferring well-drained soil and partial shade. Despite its fragile appearance, it is quite hardy and can survive in cool climates.

In Korea, Norugwi (노루귀) is appreciated as a symbol of early spring and resilience, as it blooms quietly on forest floors before most other plants awaken.