White trillium (Trillium grandiflorum)

Also known as: Snow trillium, Large-flowered trillium, Large white wood lily

The white trillium, recognized as Ohio's state wildflower and Ontario's official provincial floral emblem, has become a conservation concern due to its commercial harvesting from the wild. Notably, it is extensively cultivated in its genus. Native Americans use the leaves for cooking and the root stalks for traditional medicinal purposes.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting Toxicity

Attributes of White trillium

Lifespan

Perennial

Plant Type

Herb

Plant Height

15 cm to 61 cm

Spread

23 cm to 30 cm

Leaf Color

Green

Flower Size

2.5 cm to 8 cm

Flower Color

White Pink

Images of White trillium

Quickly Identify White trillium

Showy white blooms up to 4 inches (10 cm) wide are a key identifier.

Distinctive trio of large oval leaves enveloping each flower.

Petals overlap forming a tube with a white to pink color transition.

Fruit is a 6-parted berry-like capsule, 0.5-1 inch (1.27-2.54 cm) long.

Stem is unbranched, light green, and sleek with a diameter of 0.2-0.4 inches (0.5-1 cm).

Scientific Classification of White trillium

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Monocotyledons

Order

Liliales

Family

Bunchflower

Genus

Birthroots

Species

White trillium

Planting and Growing of White trillium

Care Difficulty

Hard

Watering Schedule

Every 2 days

Sunlight Requirements

Partial sun

Sunshine Duration

4-8 hours

Ideal Temperature

55-75℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

5-6.5

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Plastic, Ceramic

How to Water White trillium?

For Trillium grandiflorum, watering should be done until the soil is evenly moist but not soggy. The idea is to keep the soil consistently damp, mimicking the forest floors where this plant naturally thrives.

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What Are the Sunlight Requirements for White trillium?

Sunlight Requirements: Partial sun, Full shade

Duration of light: 3 to 6 hours

Trillium grandiflorum benefits most from partial or dappled sunlight, akin to its native woodland environment. This light balance ensures optimal photosynthesis, promoting healthy foliage, prolific blooming, and its natural life cycle.

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What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for White trillium?

Ideal Temperature: 55 ~ 75℉

Trillium grandiflorum thrives in moderate temperatures, ranging from 55°F to 75°F. These temperatures reflect a natural woodland environment, ensuring optimal growth and blooming during spring. Maintaining this range allows for the best photosynthesis rates, which directly impact the plant's health and vitality.

What Soil is Best for White trillium?

Soil type: Loam, Acidic soil

Soil PH: 5 ~ 6.5

Trillium grandiflorum thrives in nutrient-rich soil. The abundant nutrients support robust growth and vivid blooms, critical for the plant's lifecycle. While preferring moist environments, Trillium grandiflorum needs well-drained soil to prevent root rot. The balance of moisture aids in maintaining its lush green foliage. High organic matter content enhances the soil structure and fertility for Trillium grandiflorum, improving aeration and microbial activity for healthier plant development.

How to Fertilize White trillium?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

For the beautiful Trillium grandiflorum, a light hand with fertilizer is crucial. Too much can harm its delicate roots. Use approximately a quarter strength liquid fertilizer per month during its growing season. For solid slow-release fertilizers, a single, sparse application of balanced granules in early spring will suffice. The quantity should align with the size of the planting area, ensuring you do not exceed the recommended dosage on the package label.

How to Prune White trillium?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer

When pruning Trillium grandiflorum, make sure to use clean and sharp tools. Cut back any dead or damaged foliage carefully, ensuring that you make your cuts at an angle to prevent water from sitting on the cuts, which could lead to rot. This type of pruning should be done after the flowering period in summer when the plant's energy is focused on root and foliage health. If you notice yellowing leaves on your Trillium grandiflorum, it's best to gently trim them away as this can help in redirecting the plant's energy towards healthier foliage. Be gentle and avoid pulling on the plant as this can cause unnecessary stress. More About Pruning Techniques→

How to Propagate White trillium plant?

Propagate Time: Late spring, Early summer

Prepare a well-draining soil mix rich in organic matter. Trillium grandiflorum prefers a woodland-like setting, so ensure the soil mimics such conditions, with moisture retention but good drainage, to foster healthy root growth.

Plant seeds in the prepared soil in late spring. Scatter them lightly over the surface and cover with a thin layer of soil. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged, and ensure they are in a shaded area to mimic natural forest floors.

In early summer, divide mature Trillium clumps by carefully digging up the plant and separating it into smaller sections. Ensure each section has a portion of the rhizome and some roots. Replant immediately at the same depth they were growing.

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How to Repot White trillium plant?

Repotting frequency: Every 2-3 years

Repotting signals for Trillium grandiflorum include signs of stress such as reduced blooming, foliage discoloration, or visibly overcrowded roots surfacing at the soil. Spring and autumn offer optimal conditions for minimizing stress on the plant. During these cooler, less harsh seasons, the plant can begin stabilizing and new root growth can establish more efficiently.

Selecting the right pot is crucial for Trillium grandiflorum’s longevity. Choose a pot that's only slightly larger than the current one to avoid waterlogging, yet deep enough to allow for root expansion. A pot with drainage holes is essential, as it helps prevent root rot by allowing excess water to escape. The material of the pot should provide insulation against temperature fluctuations, keeping roots comfortable.

A well-draining soil blend is paramount for Trillium grandiflorum. Opt for a mix rich in organic matter, as this type of soil retains the right amount of moisture while providing essential nutrients. Incorporating perlite or sand can improve aeration and drainage, which are critical for preventing root rot and fostering healthy root development.

Toxicity of White trillium

Is White trillium toxic to humans?

The white trillium is an attractive plant, yet it poses significant risks if its roots or berries are ingested. These components contain high levels of saponins. While the human body does not absorb saponins effectively enough to induce severe complications, they can cause significant disturbances in the digestive system. Symptoms may encompass nausea, sneezing, abdominal discomfort, colic, vomiting, and diarrhea. It is crucial to keep this plant and its berries well out of children's reach; if necessary, consider removing the berries and disposing of them to prevent small children from accessing them.

Is White trillium toxic to cat?

White trillium, commonly referred to as White trillium, is recognized for its mild toxic effects on cats. When ingested in considerable quantities, various parts of the white trillium, including its stems, fruits, and roots, can induce poisoning. Cats that are affected may show symptoms of physical unease or distress. It is crucial for pet owners to remain alert, as cats may consume white trillium out of curiosity or inadvertently. If there is any suspicion that a cat has ingested white trillium, it is essential to take it to a veterinary clinic without delay for appropriate care.

Is White trillium toxic to dog?

The white trillium presents a mild toxicity risk to dogs. Although cases of poisoning are relatively rare, they can occur if a dog ingests significant quantities of the plant. The plant parts that pose a threat when consumed include the stems, fruits, and roots. Following the ingestion of white trillium, dogs may show symptoms such as gastrointestinal distress or skin irritation. It is vital for dog owners to keep a close watch on their pets and prevent them from roaming in areas where white trillium flourishes. Should a dog consume white trillium, it is important to seek prompt veterinary care to guarantee appropriate treatment and management of any negative effects.

WARNING

The judgment on toxicity and danger is for reference only. We DO NOT GUARANTEE any accuracy of such judgment. Therefore, you SHALL NOT rely on such judgment. It is IMPORTANT TO SEEK PROFESSIONAL ADVICE in advance when necessary.

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