Summary
Yellow trout lily (Erythronium americanum) is among the earliest spring wildflowers to bloom and is spectacular when flowering in large masses. Arising from a corm in early April, the solitary stem and blossom of this 4-5” tall plant emerges from double basal leaves that are attractively mottled, giving the speckled appearance of trout.
This spring ephemeral thrives in moist, rich soil and spreads over time to form sizable colonies where the attractive leaves outnumber the yellow blooms. As it takes 4-5 yrs for seed-grown plants to flower, it is recommended to purchase mature corms for quicker results. Yellow trout lilies transplant poorly due to their delicate root system, and should be left alone where naturally occurring.
Yellow trout lily has many suitable garden companions including Dutchman’s-breeches (Dicentra cucullaria), Virginia bluebells (Mertensia virginica), Virginia spring beauty (Claytonia virginica), and cut-leaf toothwort (Cardamine concatenata). Zones 3-8.
More Details
- Plant Type
perennial-corm - Sun/Shade Conditions
partial-to-full-shade - Foliage Character
deciduous - Soil Moisture
average-to-moist - Flowering Period
early-to-mid-spring - Soil PH
acidic - Flower Color
yellow - Summer Foliage Color
green - Fall Foliage Color
dormant - Other Common Names
dogtooth violet - Fruit/Seed Color
not-showy, tan
Additional Information
Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, Flora of North America, Illinois Wildflowers, Missouri Botanical Garden