A common sight on the shady forest floor, Jumpseed is recognized by its broad, oval leaves, which often bear a faint, dark V-shaped "chevron" on their surface. In late summer, it sends up a remarkably thin, wiry stalk dotted with tiny, bead-like white flowers.

True to its name, the plant has a fascinating trick: a gentle touch on a ripe seed sends it springing several feet away, a clever method of dispersal. This understory perennial provides valuable seeds for ground-foraging birds like grouse and turkey.