An Ode to Baby Trillium

I want to appreciate plants in all the various stages of life. From the emergence of the first seed leaves (or cotyledons) to the drying and ultimate dispersal of seed in autumn. There is beauty in all the seasonal changes that accompany life.

Trilliums exhibit a unique life cycle. They start life looking very different than what they ultimately become. Of course, many plants undergo huge changes. But Trillium just seem special in this regard.

Trilliums are monocots with one seed leaf or cotyledon. To my knowledge, this is true of all the monocots from giant tropical palms to tiny alpine grasses. A newly germinated Trillium will have 1 narrow leaf similar to a tiny grass or corn seedling. But unlike many other monocots, it remains in this cotyledon stage for one whole growing season!

this container has newly germinated trillium (the narrow-leaf seedlings) and older, perhaps 2-year old Trillium cunteatum seedlings

Depending on the species, the second-year leaf looks more like what we would consider a classic trillium shape and pattern. Though it still produces only one "true" leaf, this is more rounded and can even display some of the mottling or camouflage patterns so iconic in adult trillium.

Yet there is great variation even within Trillium species. As they mature into the adult form, the level of mottling may change, usually becoming more pronounced (more intense camouflage). However, some "individuals will have little to no mottling.

Given rodents, deer, or slugs don't eat them, by the 3rd or 4th year Trillium will develop the typical large 3 leaves. But they may not flower for many years depending on environmental conditions and herbivory. When cultivated in rich soils with plenty of moisture under dappled deciduous trees, Trillium can mature and flower within 3 or 4 years. This cycle is also dependent on the species. For some, like Trillium foetidissimum and oostingii, flowering occurs relatively quickly, others, perhaps decumbens, may take at least an additional year (at least in my garden).

note the differnt leaf patterns and variation not only in the differnt species but even within one seedpod. Every trillium is unique!

As the years go by you will begin to learn and "see" the ways of each species you grow. And you'll notice subtle differences in every aspect of their life cycles. Every plant has a unique life cycle, and I urge you to familiarize yourself with all the facets of development in your plant "babies".

As far as growing Trillium from seed, first you need to buy a trillium and collect the seed. Pods usually ripen in June, and should be directly sowed into the ground or containers. You then just put the pots outside in the shade and wait till next year. It's simple but slow! You should take care not to overwater them after they've germinated.