Trillium erectum
birthroot bulbs
- 1 × rhizome
- £11.99
- available to order from summer
- 3 × rhizomes
- £30.00 £10.00 each
- available to order from summer
Delivery options
- Bulbs (only) £4.99
- Position: deep or partial shade
- Soil: humus-rich, moist, well-drained soil
- Rate of growth: average
- Flowering period: April
- Hardiness: fully hardy
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.
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.
- Humans/Pets: Ornamental bulbs - not to be eaten
