Trillium erectum aka Bethroot

Taxonomy ID: 12700

Trillium erectum, also known as the red trillium, wake robin, purple trillium, bethroot, or stinking benjamin, is a perennial herbaceous plant in the family Melanthiaceae. It is native to the eastern United States and eastern Canada, ranging from northern Georgia to Quebec and New Brunswick. The plant grows to about 40 cm (16 in) in height with a spread of 30 cm (12 in) and can tolerate extreme cold in winter, surviving temperatures down to −35 °C (−31 °F). Its parts are in groups of three, with a 3-petalled flower above a whorl of pointed triple leaves. Trillium erectum is a spring ephemeral whose life-cycle is synchronized with that of the forests in which it lives. The plant takes its common name "wake robin" by analogy with the European robin, which has a red breast heralding spring. Red Trillium is also a super rare houseplant that is not challenging to grow and needs regular watering to thrive. It is best kept in abundant sunlight and should be less than 3 feet from a window. The plant likes soil that is well-draining, and it won't need added fertilizers if it is repotted each time it doubles in size. Red Trillium belongs to the Trillium genus and is native to North America.

Common names

Bethroot, Red Trillium, Wake Robin, Purple Trillium, Stinking Benjamin

More information about Bethroot

How difficult is it to take care of Bethroot

With its straightforward care requirements, Bethroot is a hassle-free plant that anyone can enjoy.

What is the region of origin of Bethroot

Bethroot’s native range is Eastern N. America - Quebec to Ontario and Michigan, south to Tennessee.

What are the water needs for Bethroot

Bethroot should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

What is the right soil for Bethroot

Bethroot loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.

How to fertilize Bethroot

The Bethroot is known for its slow growth and doesn't require fertilizing beyond its potting soil. Replacing the soil in its pot once a year should offer it sufficient nutrition. It's essential to remember that plants get their energy from the sun, not from fertilizers.

Is Bethroot toxic to humans/pets?

Bethroot is poisonous if ingested. We suggest keeping this plant out of reach if you have children, cats, or dogs in the home.

What is the growth pattern of Bethroot

The Bethroot displays clumping growth habits, with new shoots arising from the soil close to the parent plant.

More info:
Wikipedia