Trillium pusillum aka Dwarf Trillium

Trillium pusillum, or dwarf wakerobin, is a small wildflower. It is a perennial in the Melanthiaceae family. It is native to the southeastern and south-central United States. Kew also records it in the east-central United States. It grows from rhizomes, stems that lie beneath the soil. It spreads at a slow pace. Plants left in place can form colonies over time.

Plants stand about 0.25–1 foot [0.08–0.30 metres] tall. Their spread reaches 0.5–1.67 feet [0.15–0.51 metres]. The upright stems have no branches and a smooth surface. Their color ranges from green to dark red. Each stem bears three green, leaflike bracts in a ring. These narrow parts have a lance shape and smooth edges. They have no hairs. Most measure less than 0.25 feet [0.08 metres] long.

The flowers have a scent and open in spring. Each stalk bears one flower. In North Carolina, bloom runs from March through May. Each flower has three petals with wavy edges. White petals turn pale pink or lavender as they age. Six stamens bear yellow or lavender anthers, which hold pollen. They stand around a white ovary. Bees, yellow jackets, and other insects seek pollen and nectar. White capsules follow the flowers. These fruits look like berries and have six parts. North Carolina plants bear fruit from June through July. Ants spread the seeds. Small mammals eat both fruits and seeds.

Grow this plant in part shade or deep shade. It needs moist, acidic soil rich in organic matter. The soil should drain well, with no standing water. NC State lists it for USDA zones 4a through 9b. Its small size suits native gardens in the shade. It also suits areas where plants can spread on their own. Groups can form a low mass of spring flowers. The plant feeds wildlife as well as its flower visitors. Black-patched clepsis and American angle shades moth larvae use its leaves as hosts.

Serious pest and disease trouble is not usual. Slugs and snails may feed on the plant. Leaf spot, rust, and smut can also occur. It does not cope well with moves, so avoid needless ones. NC State lists seed and division as ways to grow more plants. It also lists young, unfolding leaves as safe to eat after cooking. Its guidance calls for ten minutes in boiling, salted water. It flags the fruits as a low-severity poison risk. The toxic substance and symptoms remain unknown. Treat the fruit with caution. This leaf use does not show that other parts are safe.