Description and General Information:
Trillium luteum is native to mountain woodlands of southeast USA. This species is part of the sessile group of trilliums, characterized by stemless flowers. Plants reach about 45 cm tall with a whorl of three green leaves variously tesselated in silvery blotches and streaks. Each stem terminates in a single stemless yellow flower with three 5-7.5 cm long petals. Flowers have a lemony fragrance.
Blooming Season:
April in the south to early June in the north.
Cultivation:
Trillium as a rule are woodland plants growing under deciduous trees. Light levels are relatively high in early spring but become quite shaded once the overstory leafs. In the garden, grow them in part to full shade. The soil should be humusy but well-drained. It is hardy from zones 4-8.
Propagation:
Large clumps may be dug and divided in mid to late summer as the plants start to enter their dormancy. They do not transplant well, so divisions may take a few years to settle in. Seed propagation is most common, however, the seeds are ephemeral and must never dry out. Fresh seed should be sown in situ or in pots, left outside for the winter to be exposed to fluctuating temperatures.