Bent White Wake-Robin
trillium flexipes
Also known as: ["Rocky Mountain Wake-Robin","Bent Trillium"]
Overview
A perennial herbaceous plant with a single, nodding white flower atop a stem bearing three broad leaves.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Liliales |
| Family: | Melanthiaceae |
| Genus: | Trillium |
| Botanical Name: | Trillium flexipes |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: woodland garden or shaded, moist border
- 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; avoid waterlogged conditions.
- Soil Type: Rich, humusy, well-draining soil with plenty of organic matter; resembles woodland soil.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically after flowering or in late autumn.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning; remove only dead or diseased parts.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Partial shade to full shade; 4–6 hours of dappled or filtered sunlight per day, especially in morning or late afternoon.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate slowly to brighter light if moving from deep shade; protect from harsh midday sun; ideal for woodland or shaded garden beds.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full shade
Avoid direct sun; provide shade during peak hours; mimic natural forest floor conditions.
Watering
every 7–10 days during growing season, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries slightly between waterings; avoid overwatering, especially in winter.
Soil
rich, moist, well-drained, humus-rich soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral, pH 5.5–7.0.
Use organic matter; ensure good drainage; maintain consistent moisture.
Temperature
Cool to moderate temperatures, ideally 50–70°F (10–21°C); prefers cooler summers and avoids extreme heat.
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature swings; maintain consistent cool conditions.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 months during active growth
Fertilize sparingly; avoid feeding during dormancy; use organic options like compost tea.
Propagation
Methods
Seed propagation or division of rhizomes; seeds require stratification for germination.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Collect seeds or divide rhizomes.
- Prepare medium.
- Plant seeds or rhizomes.
- Maintain humidity and shade.
- Wait for germination or growth.
Best Time: Early spring for division; autumn for seed sowing after stratification.
Environment
Shaded, cool, and humid environment; maintain consistent moisture but avoid waterlogging.
Medium
Well-draining, humus-rich soil with added perlite or sand; can also use a mix of peat and sand for seeds.
Hormone
Not typically required for rhizome division; optional for seeds but not essential.
Timeline
Seeds may take 1–2 years to germinate; rhizome division can establish in 1–2 growing seasons.
Tools Needed
Sharp knife, trowel, pots, seed trays, rooting medium.
Quick Tips
Stratify seeds for better germination; divide rhizomes carefully to avoid damage; maintain consistent moisture.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip off dead leaves or stems at the base; avoid cutting into healthy growth.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning needed; focus on removing dead or damaged foliage to improve air circulation.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruners.
Checklist
Inspect for dead foliage; sanitize tools; prune carefully; dispose of removed parts.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins or late autumn after dormancy.
Pot Size
Use the same size pot unless severely root-bound; increase by only 1–2 inches if necessary.
Method
Gently lift the plant; trim any dead roots; replant in fresh, well-draining soil; ensure the crown is at soil level.
Suggestions
Repot only if the plant is overcrowded or the soil is depleted; Trilliums prefer to be undisturbed.
Checklist
Prepare new pot; gently remove plant; inspect roots; trim if needed; replant at correct depth; water lightly.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; water early in the day to minimize fungal issues; allow excess water to drain away completely.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or leaf mold to enhance fertility and structure; incorporate perlite or sand for drainage.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf scorch, or stunted growth in excessive heat; yellowing or root rot in cold, waterlogged conditions.
Cold Stress
Slows growth and can cause root damage if soil freezes; may go dormant in winter.
Solution: Mulch heavily to insulate roots; plant in sheltered locations; avoid overwatering in cold weather.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, scorch, or drop; growth may stall in excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water deeply but infrequently.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply in spring; avoid over-fertilizing; stop in late summer.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring; avoid high-nitrogen formulas; discontinue in late summer to prepare for dormancy.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal discomfort if they consume Trillium flexipes. The saponins in the plant can cause irritation to the digestive tract.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Trillium flexipes may lead to mild gastrointestinal upset due to the presence of saponins. Symptoms are typically temporary and resolve without long-term effects.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicTrillium flexipes contains saponins, which can cause mild gastrointestinal distress if ingested in significant quantities. The plant's effects are generally not severe but can be unpleasant.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Trillium flexipes toxic to pets?
A: Reliable information on toxicity to pets is not available.
Q: How should I care for Trillium flexipes?
A: It requires partial shade, moist but well-drained soil, and protection from strong winds.
Q: Does Trillium flexipes attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees and butterflies.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Melanthiaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during growi |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
