Toad Trillium (Trillium sessile)
Trillium sessile, commonly known as Toad Trillium, is a native perennial found in rich, moist woodlands and shaded areas throughout Illinois. It thrives in well-drained, humus-rich soils and prefers partial to full shade.
This plant features large, broad, dark green leaves with a distinctive mottled pattern and a single, dark maroon or reddish-purple flower that blooms in early spring. Unlike other trilliums, the flower of Trillium sessile lacks a prominent stalk, making it "sessile" (directly attached to the leaves). The plant's flowers attract early-season pollinators such as ants and bees.
For Illinois native plant enthusiasts, Trillium sessile is a striking woodland species that adds elegance to shaded gardens, offering seasonal interest and supporting local ecosystems.
Trillium sessile, commonly known as Toad Trillium, is a native perennial found in rich, moist woodlands and shaded areas throughout Illinois. It thrives in well-drained, humus-rich soils and prefers partial to full shade.
This plant features large, broad, dark green leaves with a distinctive mottled pattern and a single, dark maroon or reddish-purple flower that blooms in early spring. Unlike other trilliums, the flower of Trillium sessile lacks a prominent stalk, making it "sessile" (directly attached to the leaves). The plant's flowers attract early-season pollinators such as ants and bees.
For Illinois native plant enthusiasts, Trillium sessile is a striking woodland species that adds elegance to shaded gardens, offering seasonal interest and supporting local ecosystems.
Trillium sessile, commonly known as Toad Trillium, is a native perennial found in rich, moist woodlands and shaded areas throughout Illinois. It thrives in well-drained, humus-rich soils and prefers partial to full shade.
This plant features large, broad, dark green leaves with a distinctive mottled pattern and a single, dark maroon or reddish-purple flower that blooms in early spring. Unlike other trilliums, the flower of Trillium sessile lacks a prominent stalk, making it "sessile" (directly attached to the leaves). The plant's flowers attract early-season pollinators such as ants and bees.
For Illinois native plant enthusiasts, Trillium sessile is a striking woodland species that adds elegance to shaded gardens, offering seasonal interest and supporting local ecosystems.
Bloom time: mid- to late spring
Habitats: floodplain woodlands in valleys; lower slopes of shady ravines; rich mesic woodlands; swamps
Lifespan: perennial
Moisture: moist
Plant type (height): forb (5 to 12 inches)
Requirements: dappled sunlight to light shade (during the summer, more shade is tolerated)
Soil: rich loamy soil with abundant organic matter