Also known as Lemon-Scented Trillium · Lemon-Scented Wakerobin · Wax Toadshade
Yellow wakerobin (Trillium luteum) is a spring ephemeral with a fragrant, lemon-yellow flower atop a whorl of three leaves.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Partial to Dappled Shade
50% intensity
Prefers bright, indirect light or shade, especially afternoon shade. Avoid direct, hot sun.
Consistent Moisture
75% intensity
Keep soil evenly moist, especially during active growth. Avoid waterlogged conditions.
Rich, moist, well-drained soil
50% intensity
Cool to Moderate
50% intensity
Prefers cooler temperatures. Protect from extreme heat and winter freezes.
Light Feeding
25% intensity
A light application of organic fertilizer or compost in spring is sufficient. Avoid over-fertilizing.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water consistently, ensuring the soil remains evenly moist but not waterlogged. Reduce watering slightly during the plant's dormant period in late summer and fall, but avoid letting the soil dry out completely.
Good drainage is crucial to prevent root rot.
Pruning is minimal for yellow wakerobin. Remove any dead, diseased, or damaged foliage as it appears.
After the plant has finished flowering and its leaves begin to yellow, allow the foliage to naturally die back before cutting it away. This helps the plant store energy for the next season.
Propagate Trillium luteum primarily through division of established clumps during dormancy, typically in late summer or early fall. Seed propagation is possible but slow, requiring stratification.
Sow seeds in a moist, well-draining medium and keep cool.
Repotting is generally not necessary unless the plant becomes overcrowded or outgrows its container.
For container-grown plants, repot in late summer or early fall into a larger pot with fresh, well-draining woodland soil mix. Handle the rhizomes gently to avoid damage.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Yellow Wakerobin (Trillium luteum)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Liliales |
| Family | Melanthiaceae |
| Genus | Trillium |
| Species | Trillium luteum |
Similar in genus Trillium
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
