Nodding Wakerobin
Trillium flexipes
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part shade
Water
medium
Size
6"–12" H × 4"–8" W
Bloom
Apr, May
Native to
AL, DE, IA, IL and 14 more states
Pollinators
beetles, flies
Nodding wakerobin is a charming woodland wildflower that produces distinctive three-petaled white flowers that nod gracefully beneath three broad leaves in spring. This native ephemeral goes dormant by midsummer, disappearing completely until the following spring. It thrives in shaded areas with rich, moist soil and naturalizes slowly over time.
In an HOA neighborhood
Nodding Wakerobin 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.
- Completely disappears by midsummer leaving bare ground
- Very woodland/wild appearance
- Extremely brief flowering period
Wildlife value
The flowers attract beetles and flies for pollination in early spring. Seeds are dispersed by ants, helping 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 Nodding Wakerobin fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.