The Nodding Trillium
When I first heard the words "Nodding Trillium," it kind of made me nod off a little, too. I have never been much of a plant person (you know the type...the ones who can point out every plant along the trail without a second glance), and I have always been jealous of these people until I started working here at the Nature Center. Now I'm working on becoming a plant person myself. Who can blame me? I am surrounded by all kinds of native flora -- including those along the Trillium Glen Nature Trail here at the Center.
The trail, which is a 2/3 mile trial that leads guests down by the swift-moving Swannonoa River and through the delightfully deciduous forest that makes up a large portion of our property, is a fun, short hike, and at this time of year, is full of springtime blossoms. One of these, of course, is the Nodding Trillium.
Trilliums, which are part of the lily family, are native wildflowers that are known for their distinctive three large leaves and flowers that extend above these leaves (or in the case of the Nodding Trillium, below). To be honest, when I first saw the Trillium, I immediately thought it was a Large-Flowered Trillium (or a Trillium grandiflorum), but a little research would tell me that a Large-Flowered Trillium's bloom stands above the leaves, while a Nodding Trillium's bloom falls below. Also, Large-Flowered Trilliums have yellow pistols, while Nodding Trilliums have purple. Considering the Large-Flowered Trillium is so much more common, I'd say the Nature Center's Trillium Glen Nature Trail, which is surrounded by Nodding Trilliums, is a definite must-see for any of you "plant people" out there! For more information on the Nodding Trillium and other Asheville blooms, check out Asheville Natural.
Until next time...
Josie
