Birthroot
Trillium erectum
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part shade
Water
medium
Size
8"–16" H × 6"–12" W
Bloom
Apr, May
Native to
CT, DE, GA, IL and 18 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles, flies
Birthroot is a charming native wildflower that produces distinctive three-petaled dark red flowers above a whorl of three broad leaves in spring. This woodland perennial goes dormant by midsummer, disappearing completely until the following spring. It thrives in shaded areas with consistent moisture and rich, organic soil.
In an HOA neighborhood
Birthroot takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: low. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Goes completely dormant by midsummer leaving empty spaces
- Looks like a wild woodland plant rather than cultivated garden flower
- Very slow to establish and naturalize
Wildlife value
The flowers attract early season pollinators including native bees, beetles, and flies. The seeds are dispersed by ants, helping to establish new colonies in suitable woodland areas.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Does Birthroot fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.