(aka Erect Trillium)
Trillium erectum
This member of the Lily family bears dark red or brownish purple flowers with three petals and three sepals. Flowers may be white or any intermediate shade but can be distinguished from the other Trilliums by the presence of a dark ovary. The petals are lanceolate or ovate lanceolate (occasionally broadly ovate) and surround 6 stamens. The petals are 3.4 to 2 inches (1.9 to 5 cm) long and usually emit an unpleasant odor to attract flies which serve as the main pollinator. Leaves occur in whorls of three which are broadly ovate or diamond shaped. Unlike other Lilies, this species has netted veins on each leaf that can measure 7 inch (17.5 cm) long. This beauty is common in rich moist woods throughout the area and can range in height from 10 to 20 inches (25 to 50 cm). Flowers bloom in April and May.
