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Description
Erythronium Americanum, commonly known as Trout Lily, is a North American wildflower that belongs to the Liliaceae family. It is native to eastern North America, from Manitoba and Quebec in the north to Georgia and Alabama in the south. The plant is named Trout Lily due to its mottled leaves, which resemble the skin of a trout.The plant blooms in early spring, producing one to three yellow or white flowers that are shaped like a lily. The flowers are typically 1 to 2 inches in diameter and have six petals. The plant also produces one or two basal leaves that are mottled with brown or purple spots. The leaves are typically 4 to 6 inches long and 1 to 2 inches wide.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Liliales |
| Family | Liliaceae |
| Genus | Erythronium |
Appearance
Trout Lily has a unique appearance that makes it easily recognizable. The plant typically grows to a height of 4 to 6 inches and has one or two basal leaves that are mottled with brown or purple spots. The leaves are lanceolate in shape and have a pointed apex. The flowers are typically 1 to 2 inches in diameter and have six petals that are yellow or white in color. The petals are arranged in a reflexed position, meaning they curve backwards away from the center of the flower.
Care Guide
Trout Lily is a relatively low-maintenance plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips for keeping your Trout Lily healthy and thriving:- Water: Trout Lily prefers moist, well-drained soil. Water the plant regularly during the growing season, but avoid overwatering as this can lead to root rot.- Fertilization: Trout Lily does not require regular fertilization. However, you can apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring to encourage healthy growth.- Soil: Trout Lily prefers a rich, loamy soil that is slightly acidic. If your soil is heavy or clay-like, consider adding organic matter such as compost or leaf mold.- Sunlight: Trout Lily prefers partial shade or dappled sunlight. Avoid planting the plant in full sun as this can cause the leaves to wither and die.- Hardiness Zones: Trout Lily is hardy in USDA zones 3 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Trout Lily is relatively pest and disease-resistant. However, there are a few issues to watch out for:- Slugs and snails: These pests can damage the leaves and flowers of Trout Lily. Use slug pellets or traps to control their population.- Botrytis blight: This fungal disease can cause the flowers and leaves of Trout Lily to rot. Remove affected plant material and apply a fungicide to prevent further infection.
Habitat
Trout Lily is native to eastern North America, where it grows in woodlands, meadows, and along stream banks. The plant prefers moist, well-drained soil and partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Trout Lily be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Trout Lily can be grown in containers as long as the soil is well-drained and the container is placed in partial shade.
Q: Is Trout Lily toxic to pets?
A: Yes, Trout Lily contains toxins that can be harmful to pets if ingested. Keep the plant out of reach of pets.
Q: Can Trout Lily be propagated by division?
A: Yes, Trout Lily can be propagated by dividing the bulbs in the fall after the leaves have died back.
Q: How long does Trout Lily bloom?
A: Trout Lily typically blooms for 1 to 2 weeks in early spring.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants that are similar to Trout Lily:- Erythronium albidum (White Fawnlily)- Erythronium dens-canis (Dogtooth Violet)- Erythronium grandiflorum (Yellow Avalanche Lily)- Erythronium oregonum (Giant White Fawnlily)
References
– “Erythronium Americanum.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 10 Aug. 2021. <http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org>.- “Trout Lily.” North Carolina State Extension. Accessed 10 Aug. 2021. <https://extensiongardener.ces.ncsu.edu/extgardener-trout-lily/>.
