Plants and People Project

Trout Lily - Erythronium americanum

Also called Dogtooth violet. Pair of mottled leaves with small yellow single flower. The dogtooth name refers to the white tooth shaped bulb. Field Guide to North American Wildflowers

The nickname trout lily comes from its spotted leaves that are reminiscent of a speckled trout.

American Indians used root tea for fevers, and a leaf poultice for hard to heal ulcers. Water extracts are active against gram negative and positive bacteria. Peterson's Eastern/Central Medicinal Plants

"The Trout Lily is pollinated by ants, and after a seed is planted, it will take up to seven years to make a mature plant. Only plants that have two leaves will flower." Wildflowers of Alabama

Eventually grows to form large colonies.

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Identification and other facts / More facts

Trout Lily