An early bloomer is someone who develops or achieves success at an earlier age than most. The term can be used to describe a variety of things, such as a child who excels in school or a young adult who has achieved great success in their career. In the context of this crossword, the solutions LILAC (5 letters), WHIZKID (7 letters), EASTERLILY (10 letters) and MORNINGGLORY (12 letters) all refer to plants that are known for blooming early in the season.