Trout-lily
Erythronium americanum
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part shade
Water
medium
Size
4"–8" H × 3"–6" W
Bloom
Apr, May
Native to
AL, CT, DE, GA and 24 more states
Pollinators
bees, flies
Trout-lily is a charming early spring wildflower that produces single yellow blooms and distinctive mottled leaves. This low-growing native emerges in April, blooms briefly, then goes dormant by early summer, leaving bare ground for most of the growing season.
In an HOA neighborhood
Trout-lily 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 summer leaving bare patches
- Very brief bloom period
- Appears weedy or dead for most of the year
Wildlife value
The early spring flowers provide nectar for emerging bees and flies when few other food sources are available.
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 Trout-lily fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.