WESTERN COAST TRILLIUM Ovatum

The most widespread of the western North American trilliums, Trillium ovatum varies greatly within its range. T. ovatum is a perennial herbaceous plant that spreads by means of underground rhizomes. At maturity, each plant has one or two flowering scapes, each 20 to 50 cm (8 to 19.5 in) in length.

Typically the flower opens white and becomes pink with age, but in the Smith River Canyon area of northern California and southern Oregon, the petals become almost barn-red.

Type: Hardy perennial

Height: 20"

Location: Part sun or part shade

Hardiness zones: 5-8

Bloom time: Spring and early summer

Note: The leaves contain calcium oxalate crystals and crystal raphide, and should not be consumed by humans.

Seeds per pack: 3

Germination: Seeds should be planted outdoors in late summer or fall, so that they will benefit from the cool and fluctuating temperatures of winter. In spring they will sprout, so be sure to mark the location that you planted the seeds. Please note, these seeds cannot grow without this cold period, so patience is required, though they are well worth the wait!

If you would prefer to start your seeds indoors, they will require a pattern of warm and cold periods. Once you receive your seeds, plant them in a pot, just under the surface of the soil. Water, and place at room temperature for 1 month. The seeds will not grow yet. Then, place the container in a clear plastic bag, and label the seeds (note the seeds are poisonous if eaten). Place the pot in a refrigerator for 3 months. Then, bring the pot back to warmth (room temperature). The seeds should germinate within 3 months, though if no growth appears, the seeds can be returned to the fridge for a second cold period (3 months).