Painted Trillium

Trillium undulatum

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Plant Type: Perennial Wildflower
Sun Exposure: Shade
Season of Interest: Spring
Bloom Time: March- April
Bloom Color: White (Pink Center)
Height: 8 to 12 in.
Spread: 8 in.
Spacing: 12 in.
Water Needs: Above average
Maintenance: Very little
Soil Type: High in organic mqatter
Soil pH: Acidic (pH < 6.0)
Soil Drainage: Well drained
Pests: Slugs
Diseases: None
Wildlife: Bees, Butterflies
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Description:  Painted trillium is an herbaceous, long-lived, woodland, perennial wildflower with a broad distribution across New England and south in along the Appalachian Mountains to northern Georgia. This trillium has a short, thick rhizome from which a stalk emerges from the ground in the spring. It has a single, terminal flower and three dark-green leaves infused with maroon. The flower has three pedals that are white with a central pink to reddish purple splotch at the base and have wavy margins. Painted Trillium flowers from early to late spring and is typically found mixed conifer-hardwood forests. For more information see: plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/trillium-undulatum

Care and Growing Tips:  Painted trillium thrives in moist, well-drained soil, rich in organic matter, and prefers shaded or part-shaded areas that mimic its natural woodland habitat. A special care point for painted trillium is to avoid waterlogged conditions while ensuring consistent soil moisture, as its roots are prone to rot in excessively wet soil. This trillium likes loose, fertile, moist, acidic soil with good drainage. The ideal pH value range is 5.0-6.0, and should not exceed 7.3. If the soil is barren or has poor air permeability, you can improve it by mixing in a small amount of organic fertilizer. For painted trillium, utilize balanced nutrition fertilizers to enhance growth and bloom. Apply a diluted liquid formula monthly during spring and summer. Avoid over-fertilization.



This WEB page was last updated by Lee Robertson on April 07, 2025.