Trillium pusillum (Dwarf Wakerobin): Petite Color-Changing Spring Bloomer

Dwarf Wakerobin: Tiny Trillium with Dramatic Color Transformation

Trillium pusillum, the dwarf wakerobin, emerges in spring with deep purple-black-green foliage topped by white blooms with rippled petals. As plants mature, foliage turns medium green and flowers shift to pink, then lavender-purple. Growing only 8 inches tall, it readily forms colonies.

Key Characteristics

• Height: 6 to 12 inches
• Spread: 6 to 12 inches
• Growth Habit: Spreading, fast grower
• Light: Part shade to full shade
• Moisture: Medium, rich well-drained soil with neutral to acidic pH
• Maintenance: Low
• Bloom Time: Spring
• Flower Colors: White aging to pink and lavender-purple
• Special Features: Native, self-seeds, showy flowers

Growing Requirements

Plant in rich, moist, well-drained soil with neutral to acidic pH in part to full shade. Provide annual mulch of rich organic matter. Propagate by division when dormant in late summer or early fall. Watch for smut, rust, fungal spots, slugs, and snails.