Family: Trilliaceae
Common Name: Wake Robin, Birthroot

These hardy perennials are grown for their beau­tiful, three-petalled, spring flowers, which may be white, yellow, green, pink or purple, depend­ing on the species. There are 30 species in this genus, which is found mainly in North America, with some species native to eastern Asia.

Species

T. erectum, birthroot, zone 4, from North America, grows to 60 cm (24 in) high. Its nodding, deep rose-purple flowers have an unpleasant scent.

T. grandiflorum, wake robin, zone 5, also from North America, is a lovely plant, to 45 cm (18 in) high. Its white flowers turn pink as they mature, and are held above the deep green foliage. There is a double form of this species, 'Fiore Pleno', and a distinct, pink form, known as 'Roseum'.

Cultivation

Trilliums require a shady woodland setting, with moisture-retentive yet well-drained soil rich in humus, such as provided by leaf mould or peat. The soil should be slightly acid or neutral. Provide a permanent mulch of leaf mould or chipped bark. Propagate from seed sown as soon as it is ripe in a garden frame. Germination and subsequent growth is very slow. Divide after flowering, but bear in mind that divi­sions take some time to become established.

Climate

There are species suited to various climatic zones. Most species prefer cool to cold, moist climates.