Trillium stamineum aka Blue Ridge Wakerobin

Trillium stamineum is a wildflower that lives for years. It belongs to the Melanthiaceae family. People call it twisted trillium or propeller toadshade. It grows wild in the southeastern United States. Its small range runs from Kentucky south to Mississippi. It reaches western Tennessee and the Alabama–Mississippi border too. It grows in rich hardwood woods, ravines, and prairie woods. Some sites lie near streams or over limestone. The species name refers to its large stamens.

This plant grows slowly and forms upright clumps. It spreads by rhizomes, stems that grow below ground. Its smooth, round stems range from green to purple. Three green, leaflike bracts have a mottled pattern. They form a whorl, a ring around the stem. They lack stalks and have smooth edges. Some are oval; others are narrow and pointed. Each measures about 0.21–0.25 feet [0.064–0.076 metres] long. Their width reaches about 0.17 feet [0.051 metres]. Their mottled green adds interest beside the spring flowers.

Single flowers open in April and May. They measure about 0.08–0.25 feet [0.025–0.076 metres] across. Most petals are deep maroon or almost black-red. Purple streaks mark them. Yellow flowers occur, but are rare. The waxy petals spread to the sides and curl back. They twist near their tips. Large, dark purple stamens stand inside each flower. Its scent smells like rotting flesh and draws flies and beetles. These insects move pollen between flowers. In summer, purple to burgundy fruit forms with six sections. Each berry-like capsule measures under 0.08 feet [0.025 metres] across. Ants carry away the seeds.

Grow this plant in part shade or full shade. Light that filters through trees also suits it. It needs sandy, alkaline soil rich in humus. The soil must drain well. It likes moist soil but can take dry spells at times. North Carolina State Extension lists USDA zones 5a–9b. Woodland beds and shade gardens suit its needs. Plant it in small groups or larger masses. It also suits areas left to grow wild. Gardens for insects that spread pollen suit it too. Choose its site with care: it does not transplant well.

Serious problems are rare, but slugs and snails may cause harm. Leaf spot, rust, and smut can also occur. The source lists young leaves as food when cooked. These are leaves still in the course of unfolding. It also warns that fruits and roots may be poisonous. It rates the risk as low. It does not name the toxins or known symptoms. These gaps call for care. Do not treat the whole plant as food.