Trillium grandiflorum

Trillium grandiflorum, also known as the white trillium, is a species of flowering plant in the family Melanthiaceae. Native to North America, it is the official emblem and flower of the Ontario province in Canada and the state wildflower of Ohio.

Description

The Trillium grandiflorum is a perennial herb that grows from a short rhizome and produces a single, showy white flower in the spring. The flower has three petals, which are often tinged with pink as they age. The plant has three broad, ovate leaves that are arranged in a whorl around the stem.

Distribution and habitat

Trillium grandiflorum is found in the eastern part of North America, from the southern part of Quebec to the northern parts of Georgia and west to Minnesota. It is commonly found in rich, moist, deciduous forests and floodplains.

Cultivation

Trillium grandiflorum is cultivated as an ornamental plant. It prefers a shady location with rich, moist, well-drained soil. The plant is propagated by division of the rhizomes or by seed.

Conservation

The Trillium grandiflorum is listed as endangered in Maine and Rhode Island, and as threatened in Vermont. The main threats to the species are habitat loss due to urban development and illegal harvesting for the horticultural trade.

Cultural significance

In Canada, the Trillium grandiflorum is a symbol of the province of Ontario. It is also the state wildflower of Ohio.

See also

• List of Trillium species
• Flora of North America