Wakerobin, Stinking Benjamin
trillium erectum
Also known as: ["Wakerobin","Stinking Benjamin","Birthroot"]
Overview
A perennial herbaceous plant native to eastern North America, known for its distinctive three-petaled flowers that range from white to deep maroon.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","shade tolerant","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Liliales |
| Family: | Melanthiaceae |
| Genus: | Trillium |
| Botanical Name: | Trillium erectum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: woodland garden or shaded, humus-rich area
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–7"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Well-draining but moisture-retentive.
- Soil Type: Rich, loamy, and slightly acidic soil with good organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically in late winter or early spring before new growth emerges.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Partial shade to full shade; 2–4 hours of morning sunlight or dappled light; avoid direct afternoon sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually if moving from indoors to outdoors; protect from harsh midday sun; ideal placement is under tree canopies or north-facing windows.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full shade
Avoid direct sunlight; provide filtered light; monitor for leaf scorch.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; avoid letting roots sit in water; adjust frequency based on season and weather.
Soil
moist, rich, well-drained, slightly acidic loam
pH: 5.5–6.5 (slightly acidic).
Ensure good drainage; maintain soil fertility; avoid compacted soil.
Temperature
Cool to moderate temperatures, 50–70°F (10–21°C); prefers cooler conditions during dormancy.
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature swings; maintain consistent cool conditions.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth with a balanced liquid fertilizer
Fertilize sparingly; use a balanced formula; stop feeding during dormancy.
Propagation
Methods
Division of rhizomes or seed propagation.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Divide rhizomes carefully, ensuring each section has roots and buds.
- Plant seeds shallowly and keep moist.
Best Time: Early spring or fall when the plant is dormant.
Environment
Cool, shaded environment with high humidity; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Rich, well-draining soil mix with peat or compost; for seeds, use a sterile seed-starting mix.
Hormone
Not necessary for division; optional for seeds to encourage germination.
Timeline
Division: immediate establishment; seeds: 1–3 years to germinate and mature.
Tools Needed
Sharp, sterile knife or shears, trowel, pots.
Quick Tips
Divide only when necessary; be patient with seed propagation; protect young plants from harsh conditions.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Trim back dead or yellowing leaves; remove spent flower stalks to encourage reblooming.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning; focus on removing dead or damaged foliage to maintain plant health and aesthetics.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruners.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune dead foliage; avoid cutting into healthy stems; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot; ensure it has drainage holes.
Method
Gently remove the plant, trim any dead roots, place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil, and water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot only when the plant becomes root-bound or every 3–4 years; avoid disturbing the roots unnecessarily.
Checklist
Choose the right pot size; use fresh, well-draining soil; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water early in the day; ensure proper drainage; adjust for seasonal needs.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring even moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply when the top inch of soil feels dry, typically every 7–10 days during active growth; reduce frequency in winter to every 3–4 weeks.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or peat moss to enhance fertility and moisture retention; incorporate perlite for drainage.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf discoloration, stunted growth, or premature flowering.
Cold Stress
Slows metabolic processes, causing dormancy; prolonged cold can damage roots or lead to frost injury.
Solution: Mulch heavily to insulate roots; protect from frost with row covers; move potted plants to a sheltered location.
Hot Stress
Causes leaf scorch, wilting, and reduced flowering; excessive heat can stress the plant and disrupt dormancy.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding; rinse soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength; apply every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring to early summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats are susceptible to the toxic effects of Trillium erectum, particularly the roots and rhizomes, which contain irritant compounds. Symptoms may include gastrointestinal distress and mild skin irritation.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Trillium erectum can lead to gastrointestinal upset due to the presence of protoanemonin. Symptoms are usually mild but may require veterinary attention if severe or persistent.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicTrillium erectum contains toxic compounds, primarily protoanemonin, which can cause irritation and inflammation upon ingestion. The effects are generally mild to moderate and typically resolve without long-term consequences unless large quantities are consumed.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Trillium erectum toxic to humans or pets?
A: The toxicity of Trillium erectum to humans and pets is not well-documented and is considered unknown.
Q: How should Trillium erectum be cared for?
A: It prefers partial shade, moist but well-drained soil, and is best suited for woodland gardens.
Q: Why is it called 'Stinking Benjamin'?
A: The common name 'Stinking Benjamin' refers to the unpleasant odor emitted by its maroon flowers, which is thought to attract pollinators like flies.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Melanthiaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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