Trillium luteum
Random fun fact:
- The word trillium is derived from the latin ‘three’, which is of course in reference to all the parts of the plant being in three’s. (luteum literally means yellow)
The Specs:
Family: Trilliaceae
Genus: Trillium
Species: luteum
Common Name: Yellow Trillium
Region of Origin/Nativity: North America. Typically found in on the east coast as south as Georgia and as north as Virginia.
Characteristics: This perennial’s upright stems, which grow from a rhizome, typically reach about a foot in height. The foliage is a whorl of three with mottled and silver looking leaves. The mottling is seen best with the foliage is younger. Flowers are a lemon yellow to green color, stand very straight, and are classified as solitary. They’re said to have a lemony smell, but I couldn’t smell anything… It fruits a white to green-ish berry that is packed with seeds.
Life Span: Herbaceous perennial
Hardiness: USDA Zones 5-9
Cultivation requirements: Trilliums are woodland plants, so you can imagine their preferred cultivation requirements; partial shade, moist and humus rich soil, etc. They also prefer the pH levels to be more acidic than neutral and if you do choose to transplant them (I personally wouldn’t, they don’t really like to be), it’s best do it in the early spring or the early fall.
Typical Pests, Diseases, associated problems: It doesn’t have any serious problems associated with it. Maybe the neighbor kids picking them… : )
Propagation Method: Division in early spring or early fall. (doesn’t always take, treat them with care!!!)
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