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For successful seedlings,
see the growing notes at the bottom of the page!
Red trillium (Trillium erectum) is an understory herbaceous perennial, recognizable by its three large green leaves arranged in a whorl and its solitary flower borne above them, with petals that are usually dark red, sometimes purplish, greenish, or even white. The flower often emits a strong odour that attracts carrion-pollinating insects. The plant reaches 20 to 40 cm in height. It grows in mixed or deciduous forests of Quebec, in humus-rich, fresh, and slightly acidic soils. Its growth is slow, and it takes several years before reaching maturity and flowering.
Ecological roles
Red trillium is a spring understory plant that flowers early in the season, providing a source of nectar and pollen for the first pollinators, including flies and certain beetles. Its fleshy fruits, containing seeds equipped with an elaiosome, are dispersed by ants (myrmecochory), which contributes to their spread in Quebec forests. The plant is an indicator of mature forests and plays an important role in forest understory diversity.
Red trillium seeds require cold stratification to ensure germination. See the cultivation notes below for more details.
Akène cannot assume any responsibility for the use of plants for therapeutic purposes. Always seek advice from a professional before using a medicinal or edible plant.
Sowing and Growing
Technical Details
Seeds per packet: 15
Family: Melanthiaceae
Scientific name: Trillium erectum
Life cycle: Perennial
Hardiness zone: 3
Soil type: Humusy
Soil moisture level: Humid
Soil - additional attributes: Well-drained, rich
Light: Part shade, shade
Blooming: April to May
Spacing: 25 cm
Height: 40 cm
Deer resistance: Low
Stratification: 60 days
Scarification: No
Germination time: 30 to 90 days
Sowing depth: 3 mm