<h1>Spotted trillium, Trillium maculatum</h1>

The spotted trillium (Trillium maculatum) is a beautiful wildflower native to the southeastern United States.

Here are some facts about this interesting plant

Appearance:
The spotted trillium is a perennial herb that grows to be about 6-12 inches tall. It has three large, green leaves that are mottled with maroon or purple spots. The flower is also tripartite, with three maroon or reddish-purple petals (although some varieties can be yellow). The flower sits directly on top of the leaves, with no stalk.

Habitat:
The spotted trillium is found in rich mesic forests on rich calcareous soils and alluvium. It prefers the understory of hardwood forests, slope forests, hammocks, and bluffs.
Bloom time:
The spotted trillium is one of the earliest wildflowers to bloom in the spring, often appearing as early as December in North Central Florida and lasting through early spring.
Interesting fact:
The three leaves of the spotted trillium are not actually leaves, but bracts. Bracts are modified leaves that support the flower. The true leaves of the spotted trillium are tiny and scale-like, and they grow underground on the rhizome.

The spotted trillium is a beautiful and delicate flower. It is an important part of the forest ecosystem, providing food for pollinators such as bees and butterflies. However, the spotted trillium is also threatened by habitat loss. It is important to protect these wildflowers by preserving their natural habitat.