Family: Melanthiaceae
Author: Elliott
Bibliography: Sketch Bot. S. Carolina 1: 429 (1817)
Year: 1817
Status: accepted
Rank: species
Genus: Trillium
Vegetable: False
Observations: SE. U.S.A.
Description
The delicate and enchanting Bashful wakerobin, known scientifically as Trillium catesbaei, is a captivating wildflower native to the southeastern United States. Nestled within the diverse Melanthiaceae family, this plant truly stands out with its unique structure and charming appearance.
Described by Elliott in the renowned “Sketch Botany of South Carolina” in the early 19th century, specifically in 1817, this species of trillium has continued to draw the admiration of botanists and nature enthusiasts alike. The Bashful wakerobin typically graces the undergrowth of deciduous forests, favoring the rich, moist soils found in these regions.
Characterized by its notable drooping flowers, the Bashful wakerobin boasts a trio of maroon or pinkish petals that elegantly nod downward, seemingly shy, which perhaps lends it the name “bashful.” The sepals, often green and lance-shaped, contrast beautifully against the more vibrant petals while the leaves, arranged in whorls of three, are broad, mottled, and provide a lush backdrop to the delicate blooms.
In terms of habitat, Trillium catesbaei prefers wooded slopes and ravines where it can flourish under the canopy, benefiting from the dappled sunlight filtering through the trees. This plant is typically observed during the blooming season in spring, where it adds a touch of ephemeral beauty to the forest floor.
In summary, the Bashful wakerobin is not just a plant but a symbol of the serene and understated beauty of the southeastern U.S. woodlands. Through Elliott’s early documentation and ongoing observations, Trillium catesbaei continues to be a subject of botanical interest and admiration, embodying the delicate balance of nature’s artistry.
Common Names
Eng: bashful wakerobin, bashful trillium, catesby’s trillium, catesby’s wakerobin
En: Bashful wakerobin, Rosy Wakerobin, Bashful Trillium, Catesby’s Trillium, Catesby’s Wakerobin
Es: Adonis de primavera
Synonyms
- Delostylis cernuum (Raf.)
- Delostylis stylosum ((Nutt.) Raf.)
- Trillium affine (Rendle)
- Trillium nervosum (Elliott)
- Trillium balduinianum (Raf.)
- Trillium stylosum (Nutt.)
Distribution
- Alabama (native)
- Georgia (native)
- North Carolina (native)
- South Carolina (native)
- Tennessee (native)
Additional Images
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
Flower
Taken Apr 27, 2014 by EOL − Suzanne Cadwell (cc-by-nc)
Taken Apr 23, 2022 by Michelle Pigott (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jun 7, 2022 by Jennifer Summey (cc-by-sa)
Taken Apr 24, 2021 by malot w (cc-by-sa)
Taken Apr 24, 2021 by malot w (cc-by-sa)
Leaf
Taken Apr 8, 2020 by Annie Elle (cc-by-sa)
Taken Apr 20, 2022 by Brittany Dobson (cc-by-sa)
Taken May 1, 2021 by William Turner (cc-by-sa)
Taken May 6, 2021 by Mayfield Ellis (cc-by-sa)
Taken Apr 24, 2021 by malot w (cc-by-sa)
Habit
Taken Nov 21, 2014 by EOL − Matt Rung (cc-by-nc)
Taken Apr 27, 2014 by EOL − Suzanne Cadwell (cc-by-nc)
Taken May 14, 2009 by EOL − Barry Rice (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Apr 17, 2014 by EOL − Rolling Meadows Farm (cc-by-nc)
Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − Original uploader was Halpaugh at en.wikipedia (public)
Sources
- WFO (No URL)
- IPNI (No URL)
- GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/2742183)
- POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:328441-2)
- PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Trillium catesbaei Elliott)
Specifications
Growth habit>: Forb/herb
