Trillium erectum
birthroot bulbs
The flowers on this variety can be variable, and can appear in shades of white, yellow or purple. They are however usually a deep beetroot red. The other distinguishing feature of this variety is its plain green leaves, so choose this one if you are not a fan of leaf variegation. It is a native of east and north-eastern areas of North America and is very hardy.
These plants are quite hard to grow and will take some time to establish large clumps, so they are better suited to the more experienced gardener.
These plants are quite hard to grow and will take some time to establish large clumps, so they are better suited to the more experienced gardener.
How to care for Trillium erectum:
Plant rhizomes 5cm (2in) deep and 5cm (2in) apart in autumn, ideally in a part-shade, sheltered spot with rich, humus-rich, well-drained soil. Once planted, they should be left largely undisturbed to establish and gradually spread over the years.
Apply a generous autumn mulch of leaf mould or well-rotted compost to protect the rhizomes over winter and help retain moisture. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged during the growing season, and remove any weeds carefully to avoid disturbing the shallow roots.
Once established, the plants require only modest maintenance, and cutting back old foliage in late autumn or early winter keeps the bed tidy without harming the rhizomes.
Apply a generous autumn mulch of leaf mould or well-rotted compost to protect the rhizomes over winter and help retain moisture. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged during the growing season, and remove any weeds carefully to avoid disturbing the shallow roots.
Once established, the plants require only modest maintenance, and cutting back old foliage in late autumn or early winter keeps the bed tidy without harming the rhizomes.
Flowering period:
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
Eventual height:
0.5m
Eventual spread:
0.3m
Position:
Light shade / shade
Rate of growth:
Average
Soil:
Moderately fertile, moist, well-drained soil
Hardiness:
Fully hardy
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Humans/Pets: Ornamental bulbs - not to be eaten
1 × rhizome
£11.99
available to order from summer
Unavailable
3 × rhizomes
£30.00
£10.00 each
available to order from summer
Unavailable
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