Red or Purple Trillium, Wake-Robin - Trillium erectum " (Lily family - Lillliaceae) "
Red or Purple Trillium, Wake-Robin - Trillium erectum " (Lily family - Lillliaceae) " The common and generic names indicate that the flower parts and leaves come in threes or multiples of threes. This ill-scented liver-red flower is on a short stalk. The flowers are in bloom when the robins have returned; hence its other common name, Wake-Robin.
Because of its drooping head, it is often overlooked, but its smell attracts carrion flies, which are able to find it and pollinate it. Because of its odor, it is also called Stinking Benjamin and Wet-Dog Trillium. The flower may also be maroon, pink, salmon, and rarely greenish or white. Found in rich woods. 7 - 16 in.
