Origin
Erythronium umbilicatum Parks & Hardin ssp. umbilicatum, also known as Dimpled Trout Lily, is a flowering plant that is native to the southeastern part of the United States, including Alabama, Georgia, and South Carolina.
Common Names
Erythronium umbilicatum ssp. umbilicatum is commonly called Dimpled Trout Lily due to the dimpled or inverted saucer-shaped leaves which resemble trout lily leaves. It is also known as Harebell Trout Lily.
Uses
The plant has limited medicinal uses in traditional medicine, mainly as a mucolytic and expectorant to treat respiratory issues. The bulbs and seeds are also utilized in small amounts as a food source by Native American tribes. The plant is commonly grown as an ornamental bulb due to its attractive appearance and early spring blooming.
General Appearance
Erythronium umbilicatum ssp. umbilicatum has a bulbous underground root and stalks that grow up to 10 inches in height. The leaves are elliptical and dimpled or inverted saucer-shaped with a slight powdery texture that lays flat on the soil. The flowers bloom in early Spring and droop downwards on a single stem that terminates in a nodding flower cluster. The color of the flowers varies from pale to deep lavender-pink with yellow centers. The Dimpled Trout Lily requires partial to full shade and moist, well-drained soil for healthy growth.
Light Requirements
Erythronium umbilicatum Parks & Hardin ssp. umbilicatum prefers partially shaded areas with dappled sunlight. However, it can tolerate full sun in areas with cooler summer temperatures.
Temperature Requirements
This plant is native to the Eastern United States and requires cool temperatures for growth. The ideal temperature range for Erythronium umbilicatum Parks & Hardin ssp. umbilicatum is between 50-75°F (10-24°C). During the summer months, it can withstand temperatures up to 80°F (27°C).
Soil Requirements
Erythronium umbilicatum Parks & Hardin ssp. umbilicatum prefers well-draining soils that are high in organic matter. The ideal soil pH range is between 5.0 and 6.5. This plant can also tolerate moderately dry soils, but it must be kept consistently moist during its growth period. Additionally, it benefits from an annual application of compost or leaf mulch to retain moisture and provide nutrients.
Cultivation Methods
Erythronium umbilicatum Parks & Hardin ssp. umbilicatum, commonly known as the Dimpled Trout Lily, is a North American wildflower that can be grown easily in gardens and containers. These plants are hardy and grow well in USDA zones 4 to 7. The ideal location to plant these bulbs is under dappled shade, in humus-rich, well-draining soil. It is best to plant them in the autumn so that the bulbs can establish their roots adequately before winter arrives. These bulbs need to be planted 2 to 3 inches deep, in groups of 6 to 10.
Watering Needs
These plants prefer moist soil that is well-draining. While the plants are still establishing their roots, it is vital to keep the soil consistently moist. Once they have established themselves, Erythronium umbilicatum requires less water. It is recommended to water these plants generously during their active growth period in the spring, and reduce watering in the summer and fall. Overwatering must be avoided as it could lead to bulb rot.
Fertilization
Erythronium umbilicatum does not require regular fertilization as they obtain most of their nutrients from the soil. However, you may add organic matter to the soil at the time of planting. A yearly top dressing of leafmould or compost can help maintain soil fertility. It is also recommended to add a light layer of mulch around the plants to help the soil retain moisture and remain cool.
Pruning
Erythronium umbilicatum does not require regular pruning, but it is best to remove any dead or wilted leaves or flowers to maintain the plant's appearance. If you wish to collect seeds, you should leave the flowerheads intact until they turn brown. You may then collect the seeds and store them in a cool, dry place until the next planting season.
Propagation of Erythronium umbilicatum Parks & Hardin ssp. umbilicatum
Erythronium umbilicatum Parks & Hardin ssp. umbilicatum, commonly known as the Dimpled Trout Lily, is a perennial plant that belongs to the family Liliaceae. This plant is native to North America and can be found in parts of the eastern United States, including Alabama, Georgia, and Tennessee.
Bulb Division
The most common method of propagating Erythronium umbilicatum Parks & Hardin ssp. umbilicatum is by bulb division. Bulbs should be dug up after the plant foliage has completely died back naturally. Once the bulbs are lifted, they should be carefully separated from each other and replanted in a new area. It is important to plant the bulbs at a depth of about two to three times their own height, with the pointed end facing upwards.
Seed Propagation
Another way to propagate Erythronium umbilicatum Parks & Hardin ssp. umbilicatum is from seed. This method is more time-consuming and may require more effort than bulb division. Seeds should be collected after the flowering season and should be sown immediately. It is important to keep the seeds moist until they have germinated. Seedlings should be transplanted once they have reached a suitable size.
Tissue Culture
Tissue culture is another method of propagating Erythronium umbilicatum Parks & Hardin ssp. umbilicatum. This method involves taking a small tissue sample from a mature plant and placing it in a sterile nutrient culture. The tissue will grow and multiply, eventually forming new whole plants that can be planted in a new area. Tissue culture is a more complicated method than bulb division or seed propagation and requires specialized equipment and expertise.
Disease Management
Erythronium umbilicatum Parks & Hardin ssp. umbilicatum, commonly known as the Dimpled Trout Lily, may be affected by several diseases that can cause damage to the plant.
Gray Mold, caused by the fungus Botrytis cinerea, is one of the most common diseases that affects Erythronium umbilicatum. To manage this disease, it is recommended to remove affected plant parts and improve air circulation around the plant. Fungicides may also be applied as a preventative measure.
Leaf Spot, caused by various fungi including Cercospora erythronii and Phyllosticta erythronii, can cause yellow or brown spots on the leaves. To manage this disease, it is recommended to remove affected plant parts and dispose of fallen leaves. Fungicides may also be applied to prevent further spread. Proper planting and spacing can also help to prevent the development of Leaf Spot.
Root Rot, caused by various fungi including Phytophthora cinnamomi and Pythium ultimum, can cause the plant to wilt and die. To manage this disease, it is recommended to plant the bulbs in well-draining soil and to avoid overwatering. Fungicides may also be used preventatively.
Pest Management
Erythronium umbilicatum may also be susceptible to several pests which can damage the plant.
The Lily Leaf Beetle, Lilioceris lilii, is a bright red beetle that can cause significant damage to Dimpled Trout Lily plants. To manage infestations, it is recommended to handpick and dispose of the beetles. Insecticides may also be applied as a preventative measure.
Slugs and Snails are common pests that can damage Erythronium umbilicatum by feeding on the leaves and bulbs. To manage infestations, it is recommended to remove hiding places such as mulch and debris. Barriers such as copper tape may also be used to prevent slugs and snails from reaching the plant. Slug and snail bait containing iron phosphate may also be used as a preventative measure.
Deer and other browsing animals may also damage Erythronium umbilicatum. To manage this, it is recommended to use fences or repellents such as deer-resistant plants to prevent browsing.
