Birthroot
Trillium erectum
Last reviewed: June 2026
Trillium erectum is a native spring wildflower blooming April through May across eastern North America from Maine to Georgia. This woodland perennial thrives in partial shade with distinctive three-petaled maroon flowers.
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.
Growing Birthroot
Grow Birthroot in part shade and medium water. Mature plants reach 8 to 16 inches tall and spread 6 to 12 inches wide. Expect low maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
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.
Common questions
- When does Trillium erectum bloom?
- Trillium erectum typically blooms from April through May, producing distinctive three-petaled flowers that emerge before the forest canopy fully leafs out.
- What pollinators visit Trillium erectum?
- Trillium erectum is pollinated by bees, beetles, and flies. The flowers emit a carrion-like scent that particularly attracts flies and carrion beetles.
- Where is Trillium erectum native?
- Trillium erectum is native to eastern North America, ranging from Maine south to Georgia and west to Illinois, including most northeastern and southeastern states.
- What growing conditions does Trillium erectum prefer?
- Trillium erectum grows best in partial to full shade with consistently moist, well-draining soil rich in organic matter, typical of deciduous forest understories.
- Is Birthroot HOA-friendly?
- Birthroot takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
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.
Ready to grow Birthroot? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz