Great White Trillium
Trillium grandiflorum
Great White Trillium is one of the most beloved spring wildflowers of eastern North America. With pristine white three-petaled flowers rising above a whorl of three leaves, it creates spectacular displays in rich woodlands.
Melanthiaceae (Trillium family)
Spring (April-May, varies by region and latitude)
Symbolism & Meanings
Key Meanings
Perfect For
Color Meanings
Similar flowers: trilliums and snowflakes also share similar meanings.
Cultural Significance
Great White Trillium is Ontario's provincial emblem and has been awarded the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit. The name "trillium" refers to its parts appearing in threes (three petals, three sepals, three leaves). As a spring ephemeral, its life cycle synchronizes with the deciduous forest, blooming before the tree canopy leafs out. It is one of the most spectacular native wildflowers and is beloved across its range. Conservation concerns exist due to wild collection and habitat loss.Shop Our Floral Collection
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Physical Characteristics
Natural Habitat
Growing Guide
Sunlight
Partial to full shade; dappled sunlight in spring before tree canopy fills out, followed by shade in summer
Water
Consistent moisture in spring and early summer; soil should remain evenly moist but well-drained; keep mulched to retain moisture
Soil
Moist, Well-drained, Humus-rich, Fertile, Loamy, Slightly acidic to neutral
Expert Growing Tips
Plant rhizomes in fall for spring growth
Provide deep, humus-rich soil with leaf mulch
Do not transplant from wild; purchase nursery-propagated plants
Very slow from seed (4-5 years to flower from seed)
Spreads slowly by rhizomes to form colonies over time
Do not remove leaves; they feed the rhizome for next year
Ant-dispersed seeds take years to germinate naturally
Protect from slugs and snails
Uses & Benefits
Ornamental Uses
- Woodland gardens
- Shade gardens
- Native plant gardens
- Mass plantings in naturalized areas
- Spring ephemeral displays
- Under deciduous trees
Traditional Uses
- Historically used by Native Americans (roots and rootstocks) for medicinal purposes
- Young leaves were consumed as greens (caution: berries and roots are toxic)
Disclaimer: Information provided is for educational purposes only. Consult healthcare professionals before using any plant medicinally.
Further Reading
Frequently Asked Questions about the Great White Trillium
Why is it called Great White Trillium?
Great White Trillium is named for its large white flowers, which are among the showiest of all trillium species. "Trillium" refers to its parts occurring in threes (three petals, three sepals, three leaves).
How long does Great White Trillium live?
Great White Trillium is a long-lived perennial that can survive for decades in ideal conditions. Individual plants spread slowly by rhizomes to form colonies that can become very large and dense over time.
Can I transplant wild Great White Trillium?
No, you should never transplant Great White Trillium from the wild. Wild collection threatens native populations. Always purchase nursery-propagated plants from reputable sources that grow trilliums from seed or tissue culture.
Do Great White Trillium flowers turn pink?
Yes, Great White Trillium flowers gradually turn pale to deep pink as they age. This color change is natural and adds interest to the blooms over their flowering period.
Available Colors
Quick Facts
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