Toadshade

Trillium sessile

Basic Information

Family: Trilliaceae

Genus: trillium

Plant ID (slug): trillium-sessile

Numeric ID: 23716

USDA Hardiness: 4-8

Ratings

Physical Characteristics

Trillium sessile is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.4 m (1ft 4in) by 0.4 m (1ft 4in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 4. It is in flower from May to June. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in full shade (deep woodland) semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

Eastern N. America.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Dappled Shade; Shady Edge; not Deep Shade;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Leaves Edible Uses: Leaves - raw or cooked. The young unfolding leaves are an excellent addition to the salad bowl, tasting somewhat like sunflower seeds[183]. The leaves can also be cooked as a potherb[183].

Medicinal Uses

Miscellany Skin A poultice of the bruised leaves and crushed roots has been applied as a treatment for boils[257]. A decoction of the plant has been used to treat any kind of sickness[257].