Nodding Wakerobin
Trillium flexipes
Last reviewed: July 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.
Common questions
- How much sun does Nodding Wakerobin need?
- Nodding Wakerobin grows best in part shade conditions.
- When does Nodding Wakerobin bloom?
- Nodding Wakerobin blooms in April and May.
- Where is Nodding Wakerobin native?
- Nodding Wakerobin (Trillium flexipes) is native to AL, DE, IA, IL and 14 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- What pollinators does Nodding Wakerobin attract?
- Nodding Wakerobin draws beetles and flies.
- Is Nodding Wakerobin HOA-friendly?
- Nodding Wakerobin 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 Nodding Wakerobin? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
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