Trillium cuneatum (Little Sweet Betsy)

Trillium cuneatum (Little Sweet Betsy) is a clump-forming rhizomatous perennial producing whorls of egg-shaped, prominently-veined, green leaves handsomely marbled with silver. In mid to late spring, stalkless, rich maroon flowers, 3 in. tall (7 cm), appear in the center of the three-leaf whorl. Each blossom has three upright, maroon petals subtended by three smaller green sepals. Usually maroon, the flowers may also be pale brown, clear green or even yellow. They emit a sweet but faint fragrance reminiscent of bananas, hence the common name of Sweet Betsy. Long-lasting, the flowers are followed by berry-like capsules. Easy to grow, this charming Trillium is a lovely choice for wildflower gardens or woodland gardens, where it will carpet the ground, regaling those who view it.

• Grows up to 12-18 in. tall (30-45 cm) and 12 in. wide (30 cm). Will spread gradually if left undisturbed.
• Performs best in part shade or full shade, in deep, humus-rich, acid to neutral, moist, well-drained soils. Mulch in fall with leaves.
• Excellent when massed in shaded woodland gardens, naturalized areas or wildflower gardens. Great for rock gardens too!
• Because trilliums go dormant by midsummer, pair them with other shade-loving perennials that will look good the rest of the gardening season and share their place until they reappear the following spring.
• Generally disease free, this plant requires little maintenance. Watch out for slugs and snails.
• The best time for planting is late summer or early fall as it gives the rhizomes time to establish good root systems before the following growing season.
• Propagate by seed in pots in a shady cold frame as soon as seed is ripe; takes 5-7 years to reach flowering size. Propagate rhizomes by division after flowering
• Native to the southeastern United States.