Spring Ephemeral Plant Profile: Trout lily (Erythronium americanum)

A very early spring bloomer here in Georgia, Trout lily can be found in small groups of a few dozen, but more often forms large colonies. This herbaceous perennial prefers rich woods with slightly acidic well drained soil in semi-shade. Native to Eastern N. American it can be found from New Brunswick to Florida and west to Ontario and Arkansas.

Propagation is by seed or transplantation of the corm in fall. In nature, the Trout lily is pollinated by ants that also may disperse the seed. However, a plant grown from seed may take up to eight years to mature and reproduce. If propagating by corms, these should be planted deep for their size (three to five inches) and you may expect the colony to multiply from offshoots of this corm.

This plant can best be identified by two distinctive basal leaves. These are a shinny dark green and mottled purple. The leaves grow approximately three inches long and one inch wide. Overall, Trout lily will reach a height of four to ten inches.

Flower color can range from very pale to bright yellow shows brownish streaks on the sepals, which may be lighter than the primary petals. In size it can be up to three inches across with six tepals (3 petals and 3 sepals) folding upwards. When the petals are fully reflexed, the bloom is approximately one inch across.

The name Trout lily derives from the speckled leaves, which remind us of a speckled trout. Also known as Dogtooth violet (referring to the shape of the bulb), this plant is definitely a member of the lily family (Liliaceae) and not a violet. Other common names include Adder’s tongue, Serpent’s tongue, Yellow Adder’s tongue, Yellow fawn-lily and Yellow snowdrop.

Trout lily is reported to have been used by many Native American groups as a contraceptive, and as fish bait. However, it is known to have strong emetic properties and not recommend consumption by humans or pets.

A similar plant in appearance, the white flowered Trout lily is actually a different species E. Albidum, and is quite rare.

Over the next few weeks, I will provide plant profiles for several other spring ephemerals native to the United States. In addition, I would be happy to entertain any questions you might have, and to hear about the experience of others around the country who are growing these plants – especially if in urban gardens.