Painted trillium (Trillium undulatum)

Also known as: Striped Wake-Robin, Paint trillium

The painted trillium (Trillium undulatum) is a perennial wildflower that typically blooms in late spring. Its distinctive flowers feature three white petals with a striking red or purple center. The petals may exhibit subtle color changes as they mature.

**Key Characteristics:**

- **Leaves:** Arranged in a whorl of three, with a broad and pointed shape.
- **Flowers:** Initially white with a central red or purple splash, blooming mainly in late spring.
- **Height:** Generally reaches 8-16 inches.

**Growing Conditions:**

- **Light:** Thrives in partial to full shade.
- **Soil:** Prefers moist, well-drained, acidic soil rich in organic material.
- **Habitat:** Found in cool, temperate forests of eastern North America.

Though it thrives best in natural woodland settings, the painted trillium can be grown in shaded garden areas that mimic its native habitat.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting Toxicity

Attributes of Painted trillium

Lifespan

Perennial

Plant Type

Herb

Plant Height

20 cm to 45 cm

Spread

30 cm

Leaf Color

Green Red

Flower Size

5 cm

Flower Color

White Purple Red Pink

Images of Painted trillium

Quickly Identify Painted trillium

Distinct three-petaled flowers with wavy white petals and pink blush.

Whorled arrangement of three broad leaves below the flower.

Trinity emblem in the center with yellow stamens and greenish-white ovary.

Slender, unbranched stem, light to medium green, reaching 10-15 inches (25-38 cm).

Smooth leaves with pronounced veining, taper-pointed, 2-5 inches (5-13 cm) long.

Scientific Classification of Painted trillium

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Monocotyledons

Order

Liliales

Family

Bunchflower

Genus

Birthroots

Species

Painted trillium

Planting and Growing of Painted trillium

Care Difficulty

Hard

Watering Schedule

Every 3 days

Sunlight Requirements

Full shade

Sunshine Duration

4-8 hours

Ideal Temperature

60-75℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

4.5-6.5

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Plastic, Ceramic

How to Water Painted trillium?

For Trillium undulatum, the watering amount should be about 300 milliliters. This allows the soil to be sufficiently moist without being waterlogged. Always ensure the water permeates to the root level but doesn't accumulate on the surface.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Painted trillium? ›

What should I do if my Painted trillium is not getting enough water? ›

What are the symptoms of an overwatered Painted trillium? ›

How to save an overwatered Painted trillium? ›

What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Painted trillium?

Sunlight Requirements: Full shade, Partial sun

Duration of light: 2 to 4 hours daily

Trillium undulatum ideally prefers partial sun conditions, mimicking forest understory environments. This level of light ensures healthy leaf coloration and vigorous flowering, contributing to overall plant vitality.

How much light does Trillium undulatum need? ›

What happens if Trillium undulatum gets too much light? ›

Best practices for achieving the ideal light conditions? ›

More About Sunlight Requirements Techniques→

What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Painted trillium?

Ideal Temperature: 60 ~ 75℉

The ideal temperature range for Trillium undulatum is between 60°F and 75°F. This range ensures optimal growth and development, promoting vigorous foliage and healthy flowering. Maintaining temperatures within this range mimics the plant's natural habitat, facilitating proper physiological processes.

What Soil is Best for Painted trillium?

Soil type: Loam, Acidic soil, Sandy loam

Soil PH: 4.5 ~ 6.5

Trillium undulatum requires soil that retains moisture but is well-drained. This combination helps ensure that the roots have access to water without becoming waterlogged, reducing the risk of root rot. Rich in organic matter, the soil should provide ample nutrients essential for the growth of Trillium undulatum. Adding compost or leaf mold can enhance nutrient availability and soil structure. An acidic environment supports the healthy growth of Trillium undulatum. A pH range between 4.5 and 6.5 promotes optimal growth by facilitating nutrient uptake.

How to Fertilize Painted trillium?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

For Trillium undulatum, fertilization should be light and infrequent. Use dilute doses, such as half the strength of a general-purpose fertilizer, to avoid overwhelming this delicate plant. Over-application can lead to chemical burns in its roots.

How to Prune Painted trillium?

Pruning Time: Autumn

Begin by examining the plant closely to identify any dead, diseased, or damaged leaves. These should be your primary targets during pruning. Carefully snip away the identified leaves close to the base without cutting into the living tissue. This ensures the plant retains its shape and directs its energy to healthier growth. Collect all the trimmed leaves and dispose of them properly to prevent the spread of disease. Composting is an eco-friendly option if the material is disease-free. More About Pruning Techniques→

How to Propagate Painted trillium plant?

Propagate Time: Spring, Late spring

Collect seeds from mature Trillium undulatum plants in late spring. Clean them gently to remove any pulp, then store them in a cool, dry place until ready to plant.

Fill your seed tray with a well-draining soil mix and evenly sprinkle the seeds over the surface, covering them lightly with soil. Water gently to settle the soil around the seeds and maintain moisture until germination.

In spring, dig up an established Trillium undulatum clump and carefully separate sections of rhizomes with roots and shoots. Replant divisions immediately at the same depth they were originally growing.

More About Propagating Techniques→

How to Repot Painted trillium plant?

Repotting frequency: Every 2-3 years

Notice if your Trillium undulatum is wilting or its roots are emerging from drain holes; these are signs that a bigger space is needed. Repot in early spring or autumn to reduce stress and encourage new growth.

Choose a pot slightly larger than the current one, with good drainage holes. A ceramic or terracotta pot is ideal as it promotes air circulation, reducing the risk of root rot and giving stability to these delicate plants.

Trillium undulatum thrives in acidic, well-draining soil rich in organic matter. Using a specialized forest blend or peat-based mix mimics its natural habitat, providing essential nutrients and moisture retention without waterlogging.

Toxicity of Painted trillium

Is Painted trillium toxic to humans?

The painted trillium possesses toxic compounds found in its rhizomes, seeds, and fruit. Consumption of significant quantities can lead to severe abdominal discomfort due to steroidal saponins. Common symptoms include extended episodes of vomiting and diarrhea, accompanied by stomach cramps. The seeds housed within the fruit have the highest concentration of toxins, resulting in pronounced side effects for humans. While the berries and rhizomes contain lower levels of toxins, they remain undesirable for human consumption. The vibrant flowers and resulting fruit may attract young children, who are particularly vulnerable to poisoning due to their smaller body size and weight.

WARNING

The judgment on toxicity and danger is for reference only. We DO NOT GUARANTEE any accuracy of such judgment. Therefore, you SHALL NOT rely on such judgment. It is IMPORTANT TO SEEK PROFESSIONAL ADVICE in advance when necessary.

More About Toxic Techniques→