Trillium grandiflorum – Large-flowered Trillium; White Wake-Robin; Wood Lily

General Information: Great White Trillium is a staple of spring in New England forests. This humble perennial with wavy white petals is one of the most familiar wildflowers, and a cherished plant in the woodland garden. The word “Trillium” means “Triple Lily” and references the fact that all the parts of the plant occur in threes. The specific epithet “grandiflorum” means large-flowered.

Cultivation Details:These plants are a superb choice for woodland gardens and shade locations. In areas with northern exposure, the plant is a beautiful choice for an accent or as a border planting. While Trilliums prefer rich, humusy, moist, and well-drained soil, they can be grown in drier sites, provided they receive daily irrigation. As Spring Ephemerals, they will naturally yellow and return to dormancy by mid summer.

With patience, it is possible to turn one or two Trilliums into many over the course of a few years. Contrary to usual gardening expertise, Trilliums are easiest to divide when in flower or shortly after, simply because that is when they are easiest to see. These tough plants can withstand being dug up, having their rhizomes divided, and being re-planted during active growth. A Trillium rhizome is similar in appearance to a potato. To divide, cleanly cut each rhizome, allowing 3-4 “eyes” per segment. These rhizome segments will produce a flush of new growth the following year. Plants in active growth will particularly require regular watering for a few days after divisions are made.

Growing Requirements: Prefers part shade to full shade. Spreads by rhizome to form colonies. Native to Eastern North America, from Quebec to Nova Scotia, south to Alabama and Georgia, and all states East from Minnesota to New England. Slow to grow from seed. Blooms April-May. Occasional problems occur with slugs and snails

Fun Facts: Trilliums have a unique botanical adaptation found in few species of plants – their seeds develop a structure known as an elaiosome. These structures are fleshy protrusions from the seeds, rich in proteins and fats. The elaiosome entices ants and wasps, who carry the seeds back to their nests. They deposit the seeds while eating the elaiosome, thereby spreading the next generation of Trilliums!