Yellow Wakerobin Trillium or Trillium luteum is rare among trillium so because of their yellow blooms. Native to the Great Smoky Mountains and adjacent regions, this classic spring ephemeral bears yellow blossoms atop a trio of leaves mottled with pale shades of silvery-green. The unusual flowers of this Yellow Trillium have a lemon oil fragrance. Oddly enough, the name Trillium is rooted in the Latin word for three. The plants have three leaves, three petals, three sepals, etc. The unusual flowers of this Yellow Trillium have a lemon oil fragrance. Pollen and nectar of the flowers attract bees and other pollinating insects. Host plant for larvae of black-patched clepsis moth (Clepsis melaleucanus) and American angle shades moth (Euplexia benesimilis). Small mammals enjoy the seeds and fruits as a food source. Care Trillium is happy with evening sun or dappled afternoon sun. Moist soil but well drained. Do not let it dry out but don't let it soak in water. Do not cut foliage or flowers - this is an ephemera so it will die back automatically. Best grown in zones 4-9. Growth Habit Ephemera so it will die back after blooming. Grows to 12 - 18" both tall and wide at maturity. Toxicity Considered to be of low toxicity to pets; ingestion of the berries or roots can cause gastrointestinal distress, such as vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, and, in some cases, lethargy. While not usually fatal, it is best to keep pets away from this plant. Deer resistant.
