Bashful Wakerobin

(Trillium catesbaei)

Bashful Wakerobin (Trillium catesbaei)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Trillium catesbaei, commonly known as bashful wakerobin or rosy wake-robin, is a perennial herb that emerges in early spring, primarily in rich deciduous forests and along forest streams in the southeastern United States. Its range extends from the Great Smoky Mountains through parts of North Carolina and Tennessee, reaching as far south as Escambia County, Alabama. This species typically grows up to 18 inches tall and spreads slowly via underground rhizomes. The plant features a single, erect stem topped with a whorl of three broad leaves and a solitary flower. The flowers are initially white, pink, or rose-colored and may deepen to a darker pink with age. They are positioned above the leaves and can sometimes appear to be hiding behind the green or yellow bracts, which contributes to the "bashful" aspect of its common name.

Trillium catesbaei is valued for its delicate, nodding flowers that add a subtle charm to shade gardens and woodland settings. It is often used in native plant gardens and naturalized areas. Gardeners appreciate this species for its low maintenance and its ability to thrive in part to full shade, preferring moist, well-drained, humus-rich soil. While it is not drought-tolerant, once established, it requires little care. There are no significant disease or pest issues, but deer browsing can be a problem. It is important to note that Trillium species can take several years to flower from seed and should not be harvested from the wild due to their slow reproductive rate and habitat destruction concerns.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb
  • Height: 0.6-1.75 feet
  • Width: 0.75-1 feet
  • Growth Rate: Slow
  • Flower Color: Pink, White
  • Flowering Season: Spring
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Part Shade, Full Shade
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Medium

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Butterfly Garden, Low Maintenance, Potted Plant, Rock Garden

Natural Habitat

Rich deciduous forests and forest streams in the southeastern United States

Other Names

Common Names: Catesby’s Trillium, Bashful Trillium, Catesby’S Wakerobin, Rosy Wake-robin

Scientific Names: , Trillium catesbaei, Delostylis cernuum, Delostylis stylosum, Trillium affine, Trillium balduinianum, Trillium declinatum, Trillium nervosum, Trillium stylosum,

GBIF Accepted Name: