Trillium erectum

Trillium erectum, also known as red trillium, wake-robin, purple trillium, Beth root, or stinking Benjamin, is a species of flowering plant in the family Melanthiaceae. Native to the east and north-east of North America, it is a spring ephemeral, an early blooming plant that flowers in the spring and dies back to its underground parts after a short growth and reproduction phase.

Description

Trillium erectum is a perennial plant that grows from a thick rhizome. It has a single, unbranched stem with three large leaves arranged in a whorl about mid-way up the stem. The leaves are broadly ovate (egg-shaped) and have a pointed tip. The flower is borne on a short stalk at the top of the stem. The flower has three dark red (sometimes white or pink) petals, with a cluster of yellow stamens in the center.

Habitat and Distribution

Trillium erectum is found in the eastern and northeastern regions of North America, from Georgia north to Quebec and New Brunswick, and west to Minnesota. It grows in rich, moist, deciduous or mixed deciduous-coniferous forests, often on north-facing slopes.

Uses

Historically, Trillium erectum was used by Native Americans as a medicinal plant. The root was used as an aid in childbirth, hence the name "Beth root" (a corruption of "birth root"). Today, it is primarily grown as an ornamental plant in gardens for its attractive flowers.

Conservation

Like many species of trillium, Trillium erectum is threatened by habitat loss due to development and by collection from the wild. It is protected by law in some states and provinces.

References

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