Probably not what you want to hear, but my S. marilandica (also first winter, planted last spring as nursery seedlings) were emerging by mid-April, and are about to flower. Although I did have an odd one that was a couple of weeks late...

Mine didn't make it either. Should have been up by now.

I don't mine (gift from Rouge last year) did either but I keep hoping it may show up as things have been off to a late start here.

Mine just started to show about 3 days ago. They are about 1/2" high right now. Very slow to start in the spring. Don't give up hope just yet.

Generally where are you felisar?

Thanks to everyone who contributed to this thread. I've been looking at this plant for a couple of years, but have hesitated due to its hardiness (or potential lack of) so hearing about real world experience with Spigelia is appreciated.

I am in the Chicago area. Zone 5a (never mind that ridiculous upgrade to 5b by the USDA). This is my second attempt with the spegeilia. So far so good.

I've had my main plant for many years now; it's up and so are the seedlings.