Erythronium propullans (Dwarf Trout Lily)
| Also known as: | Minnesota Dwarf Trout Lily, Minnesota Fawnlily, Minnesota Adder's-tongue |
|---|---|
| Genus: | Erythronium |
| Family: | Liliaceae (Lily) |
| Life cycle: | perennial |
| Origin: | native |
| Status: |
|
| Habitat: | part shade, shade; rich woods |
| Bloom season: | April - May |
| Plant height: | 3 to 4 inches |
| USDA PLANTS database: | Minnesota county distribution map |
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Detailed Information
Flower: 
![[photo of flower]](/udata/r9ndp23q/white/dwarf-trout-lily_0504_133223.jpg)
A single tiny flower, about ¼ inch long and 1/3 to ½ inch across when open, nods down at the end of a naked stem about 3 inches long. There are 4 to 6 tepals (petals) that curve back, with only a small percent of flowers having the 6 tepals typical for lilies. The petal color ranges from white to pinkish or lavender. The yellow-tipped stamens are of unequal length. The flowers close up at night.
Leaves:
There are 1 or 2 basal leaves, generally elliptical, tapering to a point at both ends, with smooth edges and short stems. Immature, non-flowering plants have 1 leaf, mature flowering plants have 2 leaves of unequal lengths, the longer leaf up to 6 inches long and ¾ inch wide. The color is mottled green and brown. Leaves may be curled or folded lengthwise some, or opened flat.
Notes:
Dwarf Trout Lily is endemic to 2 or 3 counties in southern Minnesota and, according to Wikipedia, is thought by some to be a White Trout Lily that mutated when the last glacier came through the area. It grows nowhere else on earth and is an endangered species. When not flowering, it is not easily distinguished from other trout lilies, but the leaves are slightly smaller than those of the average White Trout Lily. When in bloom, the flower size difference is unmistakable.Where to buy native seed and plants
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More photos
Dwarf Trout Lily plantPhotos taken at Nerstrand Big Woods State Park, Nerstrand MN May 2008
Comments
Have you seen this plant in Minnesota, or have any other comments about it?
on: 2009-08-16 21:44:42
Since dwarf trout lily is an endangered species you will need a permit to do anything with it, even on your own land. You should contact the DNR for more information.
on: 2009-11-21 12:33:31
In addition to being endangered in Minnesota, the dwarf trout lily is also on the federally endangered list. It grows only in three Minnesota counties. The Minnesota DNR states that attempts to propagate the plant have been unsuccessful, serving only to further reduce the existing population. Biologists have also told me that attempts to move dwarf trout lily failed. Can you build around the site?
on: 2011-05-07 23:12:55
I had the pleasure of finding the small patch of Dwarf Trout Lilies at Big Woods State Park. There were only 5 dwarfs amongst many regular Trout lilies. Very neat experience.
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on: 2009-08-16 19:07:14
We have the honor of seeing this flower every spring at our lake cabin on Jefferson Lake (middle) in LeSeuer County along with Dutchmen's britches. We may eventually build on this spot and I am interested in finding out how to relocate these delicate plants to a safer spot on our land. Any suggestions??