Northwest Blooms · Perennials
Trillium chloropetalum 'Volcano'
Volcano Giant Trillium
- Family
- Melanthiaceae
- Height
- 12 to 18 inches
- Width
- 12 to 18 inches
- Flower color
- Deep burgundy to blood red three petaled flowers with dark purple stamens
- Foliage color
- Medium to dark green leaves often mottled with bronze maroon or darker green markings
- Bloom time
- Late winter to early spring
- Light
- Partial shade to full shade
- Water
- Consistent moisture during the growing season
- Maintenance
- Low; allow foliage to die back naturally after flowering; divide only when clumps become crowded
- Growing zone
- USDA zones 6 to 9
- Wildlife
- Native bees early season pollinators and ants that disperse the seeds
About this plant
Trillium chloropetalum 'Volcano' emerges in early spring with a whorl of three broad, slightly wavy leaves that form a balanced platform above the soil. The rich green foliage highlights a solitary, upright flower held at the center. In mid to late spring, thick petals unfold in deep maroon to near-black tones with a satiny surface. The bold coloration and substantial petals give the bloom a dramatic presence while the tidy three-leaf arrangement maintains a refined woodland character.
This selection traces its heritage to Trillium chloropetalum native to California's coastal ranges and foothill woodlands. In gardens it brings depth and seasonal interest to shaded borders, woodland plantings, and naturalistic settings beneath trees or shrubs.
Works well in
Borders · Shade Gardens · Woodland Gardens · Pollinator Gardens · Rain Gardens
Companion plants
Foamflowers · Epimediums · Hostas · Bleeding hearts · Solomon's seal · Ferns
Design tip
Winter interest is the reason to grow it, so keep it near an entry where the bloom is noticed. Keep it out of hot afternoon sun and layer it with woodland companions for a full, settled look.
Where to see it
This plant can be seen at Heronswood Garden.
