Code:504
A valuable and very long-lived plant that will self-seed
Family: Liliaceae
Common name: Trout lily
Plant Classification: Hardy bulb
Maximum Height: 30 cm
The fabled “trout lily” is perhaps the choicest of all erythroniums. Lily-like, palest peach, spring flowers open for a long period above leaves beautifully mottled in purple, brown and white. A valuable and very long-lived plant that will self-seed very gently making splendid drifts over time.
Sowing advice:
Sow seeds at any time covering them with compost or grit 5mm deep, keeping the seed pot in a cool, well-lit spot outdoors. Artificial heat is not needed and can prevent germination so be very patient as many species will only germinate in the spring after chilling or freezing in the moist seed tray in the winter. Grow on individual seedlings in small pots until of sufficient size to be potted on or planted out into the open ground.
Ecology:
it is found in open woods, meadows and along stream banks, usually places which are wet and muddy in early spring. It is a native species of the Pacific Northwest, occurring mostly in coastal areas, from southwestern British Columbia to northwestern California.
Growing conditions:
it is adapted to a broad spectrum of lighting conditions, from shady to entirely sunny. This species grows best in humus-rich, well-drained soils, but tolerates boggy grounds as well. Plants should be allowed to dry out at the end of the summer, so that they can go dormant. It is a lovely plant for a dry meadow or rock garden.
