Giant Wakerobin
Trillium chloropetalum
Care
full sun, part shade
very low
2–2ft tall
Jan-Dec
Friendly
Prized
Oak woodlands and chaparral of the Coast Ranges and Sierra Nevada foothills from the North Bay to Kern County, below 4000 ft elevation.
Care Guide
Planting
Plant your Giant Wakerobin in a shady spot that mimics its natural woodland floor habitat - full sun listings appear to be an error, as this plant strongly prefers shade. Space plants to accommodate their clump-forming growth habit, and ensure the soil drains well since this is a woodland species. Plant in fall or early spring to give the perennial time to establish before summer.
After Planting
Water very lightly once established; this California native is adapted to dry conditions and needs minimal supplemental water. Expect spring flowers in shades of dark red to white, with the foliage and flowers distinctively arranged in threes. The plant may go dormant during hot summers, which is normal - don't assume it's dead. Avoid overwatering, which is the quickest way to kill a trillium that evolved to thrive on the dry woodland floor.
Endangered & Threatened Species Supported
Brush rabbit is a Species of Special Concern
Wildlife Supported
Birds
Consumes fleshy berries during spring migration and nesting season
Insects
Harvests and disperses seeds following fruit dehiscence
Mammals
Browses emerging leaves during spring when other vegetation is limited
Cache seeds for spring emergence and summer provisioning